Mali U23 v Burkina Faso U23 friendly cancelled as Etalons turn focus to Argentina

The friendly between Mali U23 and Burkina Faso U23, scheduled for Monday, 5 October 2026 in Bamako, has been cancelled because Burkina Faso’s under-23 side is unable to travel.

The Federation burkinabe de football informed its Malian counterpart that logistical difficulties were behind the decision.

The cancellation comes as several players from the Etalons U23 squad could be called up to strengthen Burkina Faso’s senior team for their trip to Buenos Aires to face Argentina.

With the Burkina Faso delegation experiencing difficulties, the coaching staff may rely on members of the U23 squad to ensure the country fulfils the international fixture against Argentina.

Mali have arranged an alternative for their under-23 players. The Mali U23 team will now play Mali U20 on Monday, 5 October, at Stade Mamadou Konate, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00.