The former Coventry, Newcastle, Motherwell and Hibernian midfielder told www.cafonline.com: "Never, not even in my wildest dreams, did I ever think this day would come. I was just a normal kid born in Burundi playing football bare foot on the streets.

"But then it never occurred to me that even after moving to England I will come back to serve my country in this capacity."

Les Hirondelles are making their Africa Cup of Nations debut in Egypt, as are Madagascar, who banked their first point courtesy of a 2-2 draw with Guinea.

However, Madagascar coach Nicolas Dupuis is taking nothing for granted as he prepares for a game which could have a major say in whether his team makes it out of the group or not.

Dupuis said: "It would be a great risk if we underestimated the opponent. It's a difficult match and Burundi is a great and stubborn team. We have to be really focused and prepared."

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