Amir Abdou demands discipline as Burkina Faso begin Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying

Amir Abdou says Burkina Faso must show discipline, organisation and the quality expected of one of Africa’s leading teams when they face Benin in their opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier on Friday.

The Etalons will host Benin at Stade du 4-Aout on 25 September, with Abdou satisfied that his squad completed its preparations without any major disruption.

The training camp began on 21 September and all the selected players arrived in time to work with the group. Lassina Traore was the final arrival after making a lengthy journey from Ukraine, where he plays for Shakhtar Donetsk.

“Regarding the training camp, we started on the 21st. The last player to arrive was Lassina Traore,” Abdou said at his pre-match news conference.

“You have to understand that he plays in Ukraine. It is very complicated to leave Ukraine; it is an obstacle course. He spent nine hours in a car, he left by car after the flight, and so on. So it was a very long journey for him.”

Abdou said the squad had moved beyond the initial stages of preparation and was now concentrating increasingly on the tactical demands of the match.

“All the players arrived in time for us to begin training. We had a session on Monday, a recovery session, and after Tuesday’s training we really got into the detail with video sessions,” he said.

The coach was also encouraged by the way the younger members of the squad had settled in and by the attitude shown during training.

“The mood is good. I think the players, including the young ones, have integrated well,” he added. “Yesterday, we had a good, short session with a strong tempo and plenty of desire. They are all listening to what we want to put in place.”

Abdou, who has been in charge for six months, said discipline and consistency were central to his plans for the team. He also acknowledged the expectations placed on Burkina Faso by supporters.

“It has been six months since I arrived. I want to establish discipline, rigour and a good spirit,” he said. “The people expect a lot from us. We want to produce a good performance and give a positive image of this country.”

With home advantage in their favour, Abdou believes Burkina Faso must accept the responsibility that comes with their status and respond positively to the challenge posed by Benin.

“We must also show that Burkina Faso belongs among Africa’s great teams, and we have to rise to the challenge,” he said.