Burkina Faso’s Kaboré Calls for Mental Strength Ahead of Gabon Test
Libreville — Burkina Faso captain Charles Kaboré has urged his teammates to stay mentally strong as the Stallions prepare for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Gabon this Saturday in Libreville.
The Group C leaders are set to take on the Gabon Panthers in the first of two back-to-back fixtures that could determine early qualification for the 2015 tournament in Morocco. With Burkina Faso sitting on six points and Gabon close behind on four, Saturday’s encounter is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the group.
Kaboré, speaking ahead of the match, acknowledged the challenge of playing away from home but remained focused on the bigger picture.
“It’s a complicated match because it’s away from home, and I’d even say the odds are 60% in their favour,” said the midfielder. “But now it’s up to us to prove our worth and show we’re here to play a strong game.”
Despite his caution, Kaboré emphasised that the Stallions are not necessarily chasing victory in Gabon at all costs—but rather, looking to set the tone for the return leg in Ouagadougou.
“We’re confident. We’re working hard. It’s about being mentally strong and knowing that the decisive result will come at home. We have players in top leagues, and if there’s pressure, it’s a positive one—it creates suspense and the desire to prove our value. We weren’t runners-up in Africa for nothing.”
Burkina Faso impressed during the 2013 AFCON, finishing as runners-up to Nigeria, and Kaboré believes that experience continues to drive the current squad. With seasoned players and a solid start to the qualification campaign, the Stallions are aiming to book their ticket to Morocco with time to spare.
Gabon, meanwhile, will look to draw energy from their home crowd in Libreville and close the gap at the top of the table. The Panthers are unbeaten in the group so far and boast a youthful, energetic squad that could pose a real threat.
Still, Burkina Faso’s early momentum may give them an edge. Victory on Saturday would give them a commanding lead in Group C and put them within touching distance of qualification.
The return leg is scheduled for next week in Burkina Faso, where the Stallions hope home advantage will prove decisive if needed.
