Burkina Faso Must Win Against Mauritania to Keep AFCON Hopes Alive
Burkina Faso faces a crucial test in its quest for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. The Stallions must defeat already-qualified Mauritania at the Stade du 4 Août on March 22 to maintain any chance of qualification. Sitting in a difficult position in the group standings, coach Paulo Duarte is relying on his experienced core to lead the charge.
Key players such as goalkeeper Hervé Koffi, forwards Aristide Bancé and Bertrand Traoré, and the Traoré brothers are all included in the squad. Defender Bakary Koné and several others from European and African clubs strengthen the team. A notable addition is young Ajax striker Lassina Traoré, who will make his first appearance for the Stallions, adding fresh attacking options.
Burkina Faso will have to combine experience with youth to overcome the Mauritanian challenge. Duarte’s squad balances defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and forward firepower, aiming to capitalize on home advantage.
Meanwhile, the other match in the group, Angola versus Botswana, could also influence Burkina Faso’s path to Egypt. The Palancas Negras retain a mathematical chance of qualifying, meaning results elsewhere may add extra pressure on the Stallions.
Burkina Faso’s 22-man squad for the decisive match:
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Goalkeepers: Hervé Koffi (Lille/France), Aboubacar Sawadogo (Al-Najoom/Saudi Arabia)
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Defenders: Patrick Malo, Issoufou Dayo, Bakary Koné, Steeve Yago, Jean-Noël Lingani, Yacouba Coulibaly, Dylan Ouédraogo
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Midfielders: Adama Guira, Blati Touré, Abdou Razack Traoré, Alain Traoré, Zakaria Sanogo, Abou Qadir Ouattara, Ousmane Sylla
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Forwards: Bertrand Traoré, Cyrille Bayala, Jonathan Pitroipa, Ahmed Touré, Banou Diawara, Lassina Traoré, Prejuce Nakoulma, Aristide Bancé
A win is imperative if Burkina Faso is to keep its AFCON dreams alive.
