Burkina Faso’s central defender Edmond Tapsoba has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for their opening match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Senegal, scheduled for September 6, 2024, in Dakar. Tapsoba, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen, spoke reassuringly following this morning’s training session.
Despite facing travel issues that delayed his arrival, Tapsoba has joined his teammates in Bamako and participated in two training sessions.
Reflecting on the preparations, Tapsoba acknowledged the challenges but remains optimistic.
“The group is ready, we are preparing even if we are not yet complete.
This is due to administrative constraints regarding flights and others.
Personally, I arrived a little late because my flight from Lomé to Bamako was cancelled,” he said.
The upcoming clash against Senegal presents a significant challenge, with Tapsoba recognizing the strength of their opponents, particularly given the home advantage.
“Senegal is a difficult opponent, especially since they are playing at home. So, it will be a bit complicated.
Now it is up to us to start the match well, manage the small details well and hope to come back with a good result,” he stated.
Tapsoba also highlighted the growth and learning within the Burkina Faso squad.
Reflecting on past experiences, he noted that the team has evolved and is now better equipped to handle high-stakes matches.
“We have learned from the mistakes of the last match. We also know that Senegal has great players so it will be decided by details. So we must be focused from start to finish,” he added.
The Stallions, as Burkina Faso’s national team is known, will be looking to leverage their experience and the lessons learned from previous encounters as they embark on their qualifying campaign.
Tapsoba’s insights underscore the team’s determination to make a strong start in Group L and secure a positive result against a formidable Senegalese side.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on Dakar to see how Burkina Faso’s preparation and tactical approach will unfold against Senegal’s formidable lineup.
The outcome of this opening fixture could set the tone for the rest of the qualifying campaign for both teams.
