Alain Traoré has outlined his preferred starting line-up for Burkina Faso ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as the Stallions prepare for their opening match against Equatorial Guinea on December 24, 2025.
The former Burkina Faso international, now retired and working as a pundit for Canal+, shared his ideal eleven based strictly on current form.
Traoré focused on balance, consistency, and players who deliver strong performances at club level, rather than reputation alone.
In goal, Traoré selected Hervé Koffi. He highlighted the goalkeeper’s reliability and composure, qualities he believes remain essential during a demanding continental tournament.
Koffi’s presence, according to Traoré, provides a stable foundation for the team.
Traoré then turned to the defence, opting for Arsène Kouassi, Edmond Tapsoba, Issouf Dayo, and Steve Yago.
He stressed the importance of defensive cohesion and experience, especially against varied opposition at AFCON.
Tapsoba and Dayo offer physical strength and leadership at the heart of the back line, while Kouassi and Yago bring discipline and positional awareness on the flanks.
In midfield, Traoré chose a trio of Aziz Ki, Ismahila Ouedraogo, and Mohamed Zoungrana.
He values their ability to control tempo, recover possession, and link defence with attack.
Traoré believes this midfield combination provides both energy and structure, allowing Burkina Faso to compete physically while maintaining technical quality.
For the forward line, Traoré named Dango Ouattara, Landry Kaboré, and Bertrand Traoré.
He pointed to their pace, movement, and attacking intelligence as key assets.
According to him, this trio offers multiple attacking options and the ability to stretch defences, an approach he considers vital for success in knockout football.
Burkina Faso will enter the tournament with high expectations, and Traoré’s selection reflects a clear emphasis on form and tactical balance.
As the Stallions prepare for their AFCON 2025 campaign, his proposed line-up offers insight into how the team could approach the challenge ahead.
