After more than three years in exile, Burkinabè football is celebrating a breakthrough – CAF has officially reinstated the August 4 Stadium in Ouagadougou for international competition.
This means the Stallions, Burkina Faso’s beloved national team, are finally set to play at home again.
The stadium had been blacklisted by CAF in March 2021 due to its subpar facilities. However, following a significant facelift led by the Burkinabè government and the national football federation (FBF), the once-disqualified venue has now passed CAF’s rigorous standards.
In a formal letter to the FBF, Samson Adamu, CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, commended the effort, investment, and determination shown by the authorities.
But this decision goes beyond the pitch—it’s a powerful symbol of revival. Over the past three years, the Stallions were forced to host their “home” fixtures outside the country, deprived of the roar and support of their loyal fans.
That separation created a palpable void, both emotionally and competitively.
That’s about to change.
The Stallions’ first game back at the revamped stadium is scheduled for September, and it promises to be more than a football match—it’ll be a homecoming.
Fans are expected to fill the stands, turning Ouagadougou into a cauldron of passion. Players will have the rare privilege of performing in front of their people, a moment that will be as emotional as it is historic.
The reopening of the August 4 Stadium also underlines Burkina Faso’s rising ambition on the continental football scene. With a modern home ground and the return of local fan energy, the Stallions are now better poised to build a competitive edge.
CAF’s nod is not just an endorsement of infrastructure—it’s recognition of Burkina Faso’s growing stature in African football. The stadium now stands as a proud symbol of national unity and sporting aspiration.
As September nears, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. Ouagadougou is ready to welcome its heroes. The Stallions are coming home – and the whole country will be behind them.
Below are the photos:
