Issoufou Dayo returns as Amir Abdou names Burkina Faso squad for AFCON qualifiers

Burkina Faso head coach Amir Abdou has announced a 25-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Mauritania, with experienced defender Issoufou Dayo making a return to the national team.

Abdou unveiled his selection on Thursday, November 5, as the Stallions prepare for the third and fourth rounds of the qualifiers scheduled for November 13 and 16.

Dayo’s inclusion is one of the major talking points of the squad announcement, having previously announced his retirement from international football following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, the experienced defender has now reversed his decision and is ready to represent Burkina Faso again as the country pursues qualification for the 2027 AFCON finals.

His return provides a significant boost to Abdou’s defensive options, with the former international expected to bring valuable experience and leadership to the squad.

Midfielder Josué Tiendrébéogo and Sacha Banse have also returned to the national team setup after missing previous assignments, further strengthening the Stallions’ options ahead of the two encounters.

The squad also features several established names, including Bournemouth winger Dango Ouattara, Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba, Issa Kaboré and Lassina Traoré.

Burkina Faso will host Mauritania on November 13 before travelling for the return fixture on November 16, with both matches expected to play an important role in determining the direction of their qualifying campaign.

The Stallions have made a positive start to the qualifiers, collecting four points from their opening two matches after recording a draw and a victory in Group F.

Abdou will be hoping his side can build on that foundation by securing positive results against Mauritania and strengthening their position in the race for a place at the continental showpiece.

Burkina Faso squad:

Goalkeepers: Hervé Koffi, Kilian Nikiéma, Hillel Konaté.

Defenders: Nasser Yacouba Djiga, Edmond Tapsoba, Arsène Kouassi, Rachide Gnanou, Arthur Zagré, Mamoutou Ouédraogo, Issa Kaboré, Issoufou Dayo.

Midfielders: Sacha Bansé, Ismahila Ouédraogo, Lohann Doucet, Mohamed Zoungrana, Josué Tiendrébéogo, Rachid Kouda.

Forwards: Dango Ouattara, Aboubacar Sidiki Camara, Ousseni Bouda, Georgi Minoungou, Cyriaque Irié, Élohim Kaboré, Abdoul Fessal Tapsoba, Lassina Traoré.