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TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Know Your Team: Burkina Faso

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Burkina Faso will enter the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 as a consistent force in African football, aiming to finally claim their first continental title.

Known for their resilience and tactical organization, the Stallions are ready for battle under the leadership of coach Brama Traoré.

 

Head Coach: Brama Traoré

Brama Traoré, a former international with 29 caps for Burkina Faso, took charge of the national team in March 2023 following a disappointing early exit in the Round of 16 at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire. The 62-year-old coach has extensive experience with Burkina Faso’s youth teams, leading the U20 side to a silver medal at the Jeux de la Francophonie.

Traoré’s familiarity with many of the current senior players, coupled with his tactical flexibility, has been instrumental in guiding Burkina Faso back to the AFCON. Known for alternating between 4-1-4-1, 4-3-3, and 4-2-3-1 formations, Traoré’s adaptability has proven crucial in overcoming challenges during the qualifiers. Morocco 2025 offers him a chance to solidify his legacy and take Burkina Faso one step closer to glory.

Factfile

  • Nickname: The Stallions
  • FIFA Ranking: 66th (January 2025)
  • AFCON Appearances: 13
  • Best AFCON Performance: Runners-up (2013)

How They Qualified

Burkina Faso secured their place in Morocco after finishing second in Group L of the qualifiers, alongside Senegal, Burundi, and Malawi. The Stallions collected 10 points from three wins, one draw, and two losses, scoring 10 goals and conceding seven. Despite trailing group leaders Senegal, their campaign showcased their fighting spirit and determination.

Player to Watch: Edmond Tapsoba

Edmond Tapsoba is the cornerstone of Burkina Faso’s defense. The Bayer Leverkusen center-back has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga, contributing to his club’s success and solidifying his reputation as one of Africa’s top defenders.

Tapsoba’s combination of defensive prowess, leadership, and occasional attacking contributions—highlighted by three goals for Leverkusen last season—makes him indispensable for the Stallions. With 41 caps and experience from two previous AFCON tournaments, the 26-year-old is expected to lead Burkina Faso’s charge for their first title.

Previous AFCON Performances

  • 1978: Group Stage
  • 1996: Group Stage
  • 1998: Fourth Place
  • 2013: Runners-up
  • 2017: Fourth Place
  • 2021: Fourth Place

Did You Know?

Burkina Faso has reached the semi-finals three times in their last five AFCON appearances, underlining their consistency at the highest level.

Burkina Faso’s combination of emerging talent and seasoned players like Tapsoba provides hope that the Stallions can make a deep run in Morocco. With Brama Traoré’s tactical acumen and a motivated squad, the Stallions aim to gallop into history at the 2025 AFCON.