Brama Traoré names Burkina Faso squad for World Cup qualifiers against Sierra Leone and Ethiopia

Burkina Faso head coach Brama Traoré has announced his squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with the Stallions set to face Sierra Leone and Ethiopia in October.

The two matches, part of the 9th and 10th rounds of the African qualifying campaign, will play a crucial role in shaping Burkina Faso’s hopes of reaching the tournament.

Traoré unveiled his selection during a press conference on Thursday, outlining the group of players he will rely on for the decisive fixtures.

The 27-man squad features a strong mix of experience and emerging talent across all positions.

In goal, Traoré has called up Hervé Koffi from Angers SCO, Kilian Nikiema of ADO Den Haag, and Ladji Brahima Sanou of Al-Merrikh SC. Their inclusion gives the team stability and depth in a key area.

The defensive unit is led by Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba, a cornerstone of the Stallions’ back line.

He will be joined by Issoufou Dayo, Yacouba Nasser Djiga, Adamo Nagalo, Steeve Yago, Issa Kaboré, Mohamed Ouédraogo, and Abdoul Rachid Ayindé.

This combination of European-based defenders and local talents provides balance and versatility in Traoré’s tactical setup.

In midfield, Ibrahim Blati Touré of Pyramids FC and Cédric Badolo from Spartak Trnava headline a dynamic group.

They are joined by Saïdou Simporé, Mohamed Zougrana, Abdoul Razack Yoda, Josué Tiendrebeogo, Ismahila Ouédraogo, and Aziz Ki.

The midfield selection blends physicality, creativity, and tactical intelligence, crucial for controlling the pace of both matches.

Up front, Bertrand Traoré of Sunderland and Dango Ouattara of Brentford lead a potent attack.

Ousseni Bouda, Mohamed Konaté, Pierre Landry Kaboré, and Georgi Minoungou complete the forward line, giving Burkina Faso several options in the final third.

The Stallions will look to secure maximum points in these fixtures as they push toward a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Traoré’s selection reflects his determination to field a balanced and competitive team capable of meeting the high stakes of the campaign.

The upcoming matches will test Burkina Faso’s tactical organisation, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure.

Victories against Sierra Leone and Ethiopia would significantly boost their chances of advancing to football’s biggest stage, and the coach’s final squad demonstrates his intent to achieve that goal.

Goalkeeper

Defenders

Midfielders

Attackers