Burkina Faso head coach Issa Balboune conceded that Mauritania outplayed his side in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 encounter, a result that confirmed the Stallions’ elimination from the tournament.
Speaking candidly after the match, Balboune acknowledged the superiority of his opponents and the decisive nature of their performance.
“We lost our match against Mauritania, which was very difficult. Our opponent was better than us; they exploited their attacking opportunities more effectively and played better overall,” he admitted.
The match proved to be a frustrating evening for Burkina Faso, whose early hopes were undone by Mauritania’s sharp attacking play and organised defence.
Mauritania capitalised on their first-half dominance, establishing the platform for a result that took them to seven points in the group standings and ended Burkina Faso’s campaign.
Despite the disappointment, Balboune was keen to frame the loss as part of a longer journey rather than a final setback. “Unfortunately, the situation changed during the match and disrupted our plans,” he explained. “We will continue working to reach a better level. We will see what happens in the future.”
His remarks reflected both the sting of elimination and a determination to build from the experience. While Burkina Faso struggled to find rhythm and penetration in attack, Mauritania’s clinical finishing proved the decisive factor.
The Stallions entered the game knowing only a win would keep their qualification hopes alive. However, Mauritania’s intensity from the outset pushed Burkina Faso onto the back foot.
Their ability to convert chances, combined with disciplined defensive organisation, meant Balboune’s side were left chasing the game for long periods.
As the minutes ticked away, Burkina Faso’s attempts to mount a comeback were repeatedly stifled by Mauritania’s compact shape and effective game management.
The final whistle not only marked the end of the match but also confirmed Burkina Faso’s early exit from CHAN 2024.
For Balboune, the post-match message was as much about accountability as it was about resilience. Acknowledging that Mauritania deserved their victory, he stressed the need for improvement while refusing to dwell solely on the negatives. “We have to learn from this, work harder, and be better prepared for the challenges ahead,” he said.
The loss leaves Burkina Faso reflecting on what might have been, while Mauritania’s victory propels them confidently into the next stage of the tournament.
For the Stallions, attention now turns to regrouping, addressing the shortcomings exposed in this campaign, and ensuring a stronger showing in future competitions.
Balboune’s honesty in defeat and his emphasis on growth may prove important in shaping the team’s response to this setback.
Though CHAN 2024 ends in disappointment for Burkina Faso, the coach’s words suggest that this chapter will serve as motivation for their return to the continental stage.
