TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Know Your Team: Burkina Faso

The Stallions of Burkina Faso are set to make their fourth appearance in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), eager to break new ground in a tournament that has historically eluded them.

With previous participations in 2014, 2018, and 2020, Burkina Faso’s CHAN journey has been defined by determination and lessons learned.

Under the guidance of coach Issa Balboné, the team is ready to rewrite its history and aim for success in East Africa.

Factfile

• Nickname: The Stallions
• Appearances: 3 (2014, 2018, 2020)
• Best Performance: Group stage

How They Qualified

Burkina Faso secured their place at CHAN 2024 in dramatic fashion by overcoming Côte d’Ivoire in the final round of qualifiers. After suffering a 2-0 defeat in Abidjan during the first leg, the Stallions mounted a spectacular comeback in the return fixture. Goals from Aboubacar Traoré and Alain Kanté leveled the aggregate score before Burkina Faso triumphed 4-2 in the penalty shootout.

This remarkable turnaround showcased the team’s resilience and provided a blueprint for tackling the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.

Player to Watch

Aboubacar Traoré (AS Sonabel)The 26-year-old forward is a key figure in Burkina Faso’s attack. Traoré’s crucial goal in the qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire underlined his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Known for his sharp technique, agility, and finishing prowess, Traoré is a prolific scorer in the Burkinabé top flight. His aerial ability adds another dimension to his game, making him a constant threat to opposition defenses.

The Coach

Issa Balboné
Appointed in April 2024, Issa Balboné has quickly left his mark as head coach of Burkina Faso’s CHAN and U23 teams. Known for his tactical adaptability, Balboné’s approach was pivotal in overturning the deficit against Côte d’Ivoire during the qualifiers.

A seasoned figure in Burkinabé football, Balboné has managed top-tier clubs like USFA, AS Police, and Canon du Sud. He also serves as an assistant to Brama Traoré for the senior national team, reflecting his integral role in the country’s footballing project. His leadership will be crucial as the Stallions aim to advance beyond the group stage for the first time.

What to Expect

Burkina Faso enters CHAN 2024 with a point to prove. Despite their best efforts in three previous appearances, the team has yet to progress beyond the group stage. This year, they will rely on their tactical discipline and the experience gained from participating in the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup to refine their strategies.

The Stallions are expected to analyze past shortcomings and make the necessary adjustments to challenge for a place in the knockout rounds. Their gritty performance against Côte d’Ivoire in qualifying demonstrates their ability to rise to the occasion.

Did You Know?

Burkina Faso’s only victory in the CHAN tournament came in the 2020 edition, where they defeated Zimbabwe 3-1 in a group-stage match at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé. That match also marked the first time the Stallions scored more than one goal in a CHAN fixture.

Outlook for CHAN 2024

Armed with determination and guided by the experienced Issa Balboné, Burkina Faso aims to defy its CHAN history and make a significant impact in East Africa. With a blend of emerging talent and tactical acumen, the Stallions will look to turn potential into results and bring pride to their nation.