After the frustrating draw against Burkina Faso, Senegal was highly anticipated for their away match against Burundi in Malawi. Heavily criticized for his tactical choices, Aliou Cissé made some changes in his starting lineup, notably with the starting positions of Formose Mendy at right-back and Moussa Niakhaté in central defense. In addition to these player changes, Aliou Cissé also modified his playing system, abandoning his 3-5-2 formation to return to a 4-3-3.