The Stallions of Burkina Faso return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for their fourth appearance, determined to turn potential into progress. They previously featured in 2014, 2018, and 2020 but never advanced beyond the group stage. The team arrives in this edition under coach Issa Balboné with fresh ambition and mature squad cohesion, ready to rewrite their continental narrative.
Preparation began in Ouagadougou, where the first training phase focused on fitness, tactical work, and domestic scouting. The squad then transitioned to the Mohammed VI Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco, for their second phase of preparations, including a series of friendlies, most notably against Morocco to refine strategy and assess readiness.
Earlier in the year, Burkina Faso participated in the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup held in Zanzibar, a unique edition featuring national teams. The Stallions topped the group after a 1–1 draw with Kenya, a 1–0 win over Zanzibar Heroes, and a convincing 2–0 victory over Tanzania Mainland. They finished as runners-up after narrowly losing 2–1 to hosts Zanzibar in the final. The tournament offered vital match sharpness and boosted confidence ahead of CHAN.
Official Squad
Goalkeepers:
Sanou Ladji (AS Sonabel), Konvelbo Mathieu (Rahimo FC), Traoré Moussa (ASFB)
Defenders:
Patrick Malo (USFA), Abass Guiro (ASFB), Walid Guira (AS Sonabel), Andalou Sagné (AS Douanes), Aimé Tologo (Vitesse FC), Kalifa Nikiema (AS Douanes), Damassi Konaté (AS Sonabel), Sirri Ousmane (ASFB)
Midfielders:
Belem Enock (Majestic SC), Ouattara Christophe (Rahimo FC), Diallo Moumoune (Sporting Cascade), Touré Abdoulaye (ASFA Yennenga), Bagré Tertus (Real du Faso), Chitou Adjibadé (Real du Faso), Atiou Ramain (AS Sonabel), Baguian Karim (USFA), Sangaré Souleymane (Sporting Cascade)
Forwards:
Youssouf Kaboré (Majestic FC), Eliazar Ouattara (Majestic FC), Yves Koutiama (USFA), Nasser Ouattara (Vitesse FC), Cédric Barro (Rahimo FC)
Star watch:
Belem Enock (Majestic SC) – A dynamic midfield engine, Enock has emerged as a central figure in Burkina Faso’s buildup play. His ability to control tempo, break lines with passes, and contribute defensively makes him indispensable. His form in the domestic league has been consistent, and he’s expected to play a key role in organizing midfield battles.
Cédric Barro (Rahimo FC) – A versatile forward known for intelligent movement and composed finishing. Barro’s understanding of space and pressing instincts suit coach Balboné’s style perfectly. He adds depth and unpredictability in the final third, having impressed in friendlies leading up to the tournament.
Abass Guiro (ASFB) – A strong, aerially dominant defender, Guiro was a standout performer in the Mapinduzi Cup. His leadership at the back, ability to organize the line, and calmness under pressure provide stability. He’s also a threat on set-pieces, adding value in both boxes.
Fixtures & group overview;
Burkina Faso is drawn in Group B, a competitive pool featuring hosts Tanzania, Central African Republic, Mauritania, and Madagascar. It’s a tricky group that demands consistency and resilience.
August 2 – Tanzania vs Burkina Faso, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam
August 6 –Central African Republic vs Burkina Faso, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam.
August 13 – Mauritania vs Burkina Faso, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam
August 16 –Madagascar vs Burkina Faso , Amani Stadium, Zanzibar
With solid preparations, meaningful tournament exposure from the Mapinduzi Cup, and a squad laced with domestic quality, Burkina Faso enters CHAN 2024 in the right frame. The 2–0 win over Tanzania earlier in the year provides belief, but to progress beyond the group, consistency and clinical edge will be key. The Stallions have the foundation, now they must gallop forward with conviction.
