Lohann Doucet sets Burkina Faso sights on CAN 2027 title

Lohann Doucet says Burkina Faso have the quality to challenge Africa’s leading nations and is targeting the CAN 2027 trophy with the Etalons.

The 24-year-old midfielder has become a regular in Amir Abdou’s side since making his international debut in March, starting all six matches of the manager’s tenure so far. Doucet, who plays for Vitoria Guimaraes, spoke to Afrik-Foot about his decision to represent Burkina Faso, his first experiences with the national team and the team’s ambitions.

Burkina Faso are seeking a fresh start after a disappointing CAN 2025 campaign ended with a second successive last-16 exit, this time following a 3-0 defeat by Cote d’Ivoire. Abdou replaced Brama Traore as manager and introduced several new players in March.

Doucet was among those to make an immediate impression. He arrived to find a squad keen to move on from the tournament disappointment rather than one weighed down by it. Although his selection and early involvement reflected Abdou’s confidence, Doucet had deliberately waited until he felt ready to make an immediate contribution.

Born in Nantes, Doucet did not represent France at youth level. He could have joined Burkina Faso earlier but preferred to wait for the right opportunity. His decision to play for the Etalons was never in doubt, however, and he had discussed it with former Paris FC team-mates. He played for the club from 2023 until summer 2026, initially on loan and then permanently after leaving his boyhood club FC Nantes, where he had experienced Ligue 1.

His connection with Burkina Faso dates back to his childhood, shaped by family memories and the performances of Burkinabe internationals he watched, including players who had featured in Ligue 1.

Doucet has settled quickly both within the squad and on the pitch. He describes himself as a versatile midfielder who can help build attacks while also contributing defensively. He has operated as a holding midfielder and in a double pivot during his first appearances and is comfortable in both roles.

The midfielder also credits senior players with helping him adapt. Herve Koffi, Edmond Tapsoba, Lassina Traore and Issa Kabore were among those who made his integration easier.

Burkina Faso’s opening two CAN 2027 qualifying matches produced mixed results. They were held 1-1 at home by Benin, their main Group F rivals, before responding with a 1-0 victory over Central African Republic in Morocco. Doucet believes the matches helped a revamped squad develop its understanding and improve collectively.

The Etalons face Mauritania on 13 and 17 November in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying. Six points would strengthen their bid to reach the finals, but Doucet says topping the group is the wider objective.

He also believes Burkina Faso’s recent last-16 exits do not reflect their full potential. The return of experienced players could strengthen the team, with former captain Issoufou Dayo recalled this month at the age of 35. Bertrand Traore, who is seeking playing time at Wolverhampton, could return in the coming months.