Burkina Faso Ready to Defend Their Status at AFCON 2015
Burkina Faso, runners-up at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, enter the 2015 AFCON with renewed ambition and a reputation to uphold. Drawn into Group A with host nation Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Congo, the Stallions will be keen to build on their historic performance two years ago in South Africa.
Speaking to RFI, Sita Sangaré, president of the Burkinabe Football Federation, emphasized the importance of preparation over speculation:
“I’m not going to make any calculations. All the teams that reach the final phase are equipped for this competition. It’s the quality of their preparation that will determine who comes out on top.”
Sangaré also acknowledged the familiarity of their opponents:
“We know Gabon well. We were in the same qualifying group and they finished first. They’re an old acquaintance. As is Congo-Brazzaville, whom we faced in the World Cup qualifiers.”
Despite the stiff competition, Sangaré reminded everyone of Burkina Faso’s stature:
“Let’s not forget, Burkina Faso is the African vice-champion and has a status to defend.”
Coach Paul Put and his squad will begin their campaign on January 17th in Bata, taking on Gabon in what promises to be a pivotal opening fixture in the group.
The Stallions know the expectations are high—but so is their confidence.
