Burkina Faso goalkeeper Hervé Koffi has accepted full responsibility for a critical mistake that contributed to his team’s 2-1 loss in an international friendly against Tunisia.
The RC Lens shot-stopper was part of the starting XI for the Stallions in the high-profile encounter but was at the centre of a pivotal moment that shifted the momentum in favour of the Carthage Eagles.
In the second half, Koffi mishandled a routine save, allowing the Tunisians to score what ultimately became the match-winning goal.
The error marked a rare lapse in judgement for the experienced goalkeeper, who is typically known for his composure and technical ability. Speaking candidly after the match in an interview with Fasosports, Koffi reflected on the incident and vowed to learn from the setback.
“Usually, I have good footwork,” Koffi said, visibly disappointed. “But that’s football. It was a mistake, and it happened. We’re not giving up — we’ll keep working hard.”
Koffi’s misjudgement came at a crucial juncture in the game, shortly after Burkina Faso had been pushing to equalise. The initial save attempt seemed routine, but the ball slipped through his grasp, allowing a Tunisian forward to capitalise and slot home the second goal. The miscue deflated the Stallions’ momentum and proved decisive in the final outcome.
Despite the result, Burkina Faso had moments of promise throughout the fixture, with several attacking surges that tested the Tunisian defence. However, the North African side held firm, and Koffi’s error gave them the breathing room they needed to secure the win.
The match served as a preparatory contest for both nations ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures. For Burkina Faso, the game also offered an opportunity to assess squad depth and tactical variations, but the result has inevitably drawn focus to the performance between the posts.
Koffi, who has earned plaudits in Ligue 1 with Lens, has been a mainstay for Burkina Faso over the past few years. His leadership and experience have been vital in several key tournaments.
This latest performance, however, highlights the ever-present pressure and scrutiny goalkeepers face, where a single mistake can alter the course of a match.
Fans and analysts alike have expressed support for the 27-year-old, acknowledging that errors are part and parcel of the sport. In many reactions following the match, supporters emphasised the importance of maintaining confidence and building resilience ahead of more significant challenges to come.
With qualification campaigns and further friendlies on the horizon, Burkina Faso will look to regroup and sharpen their strategies. Koffi’s accountability and determination to improve were evident in his post-match remarks, reinforcing his commitment to the team’s long-term ambitions.
As the Stallions continue to prepare for a packed football calendar, all eyes will be on how Koffi and the rest of the squad respond to this setback — a test not just of skill, but of character.
