Burkina Faso lose influential duo Nasser Djiga and Herve Koffi for friendlies

Burkina Faso have suffered a double injury setback ahead of the June FIFA international window after key players Nasser Djiga and Hervé Koffi were ruled out of the squad.

As confirmed by the Burkina Faso Football Federation, both players will miss the upcoming international friendlies against Russia and Belarus scheduled for June 5 and 9 respectively due to injury.

The withdrawal of Djiga and Koffi represents a significant blow for head coach Amir Abdou as he continues preparations with the Stallions ahead of future continental and international competitions.

Djiga has become an increasingly important figure in Burkina Faso’s defensive setup thanks to his physical presence, composure and strong performances at club level. His absence deprives the Stallions of one of their most promising defensive options for the two friendly encounters.

Meanwhile, the loss of experienced goalkeeper Hervé Koffi is another major setback for the squad. Koffi has been a reliable presence between the posts for Burkina Faso over the years and remains one of the team’s most influential leaders on and off the pitch.

Despite the disappointment, Amir Abdou has moved quickly to reinforce his squad.

The Burkina Faso Football Federation confirmed that Rachid Gnanou has been called up to replace Djiga, while Farid Sofiane Ouedraogo has been drafted in as the replacement for Koffi.

Both players are expected to join the national team camp in Ouagadougou as preparations continue for the two international fixtures.

The upcoming matches against Russia and Belarus are expected to provide Abdou with another opportunity to assess his squad, test tactical approaches and build momentum ahead of future competitive assignments.

For Gnanou and Ouedraogo, the call-ups represent valuable opportunities to impress the coaching staff and stake stronger claims for regular places in the national team.

Burkina Faso will now hope the replacements can integrate quickly into the squad as the Stallions seek positive performances during the June international break despite the absence of two key players.