The Burundi may have a new gem. At 20 years old, Karim Van Persie Mperanyi has just been called up to the national team for the first time. The NAC Breda winger is included in the coach Patrick Sangwa’s squad for the two matches against Zambia, part of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.
A first reward after his professional debut
This call-up crowns an important period for the young forward. On October 16, Karim Van Persie Mperanyi made his debut with NAC Breda’s first team after being selected for the match against Helmond Sport by coach Rick Kruys.
The player had then expressed his joy at joining the group, before eventually receiving the opportunity to take his first steps on the pitch. He had explained that his coach had asked him to play freely and not put himself under pressure.
Why Van Persie as a middle name?
The name of the young Burundian does not go unnoticed in the Netherlands. His middle name, Van Persie, is directly linked to the former Dutch striker Robin van Persie. “My father was a big fan of Arsenal and Robin van Persie. That is why I received Van Persie as my middle name at birth,” the player explained.
Mperanyi could now make his international debut in the upcoming double header against Zambia. These two matches count towards the CAN 2027 qualifiers.
After two matchdays, Burundi occupies the last place in a group that also includes Algeria, Zambia, and Togo. Only the top two nations will secure their tickets to the final tournament.
