In a significant achievement for Burkina Faso football, former Aston Villa player Bertrand Traore helped his national team secure a 2-0 victory against Burundi on Sunday, making them the first team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The match, part of the Group L qualifiers, showcased an impressive performance from Burkina Faso, with Mohamed Konate striking in the opening five minutes. The game was held in Abidjan, where both teams have been competing due to their inability to use home stadiums that meet international standards. Traore, who transferred to Ajax earlier this year, contributed to the win by scoring from the penalty spot just minutes into added time, ensuring a solid qualification for the Stallions.
This qualification marks a remarkable turnaround for Burkina Faso, who previously faced disappointment at the 2024 AFCON, exiting in the last 16 after a 2-1 defeat to Mali. Following that tournament, the national team underwent a coaching change, with Hubert Velud departing and Brama Traore stepping in. Under the new leadership, Burkina Faso has found its footing, successfully culminating in wins against Malawi and two victories over Burundi. These performances have enabled them to secure a spot in the finals, showcasing a resilience that fans and analysts alike have noted throughout the qualification campaign.
Burkina Faso’s path to the tournament has involved other key moments, with the team amassing a total of 10 points in their qualifying group—sitting comfortably ahead of their rivals. Senegal, another strong team with a history of success in the tournament, follows with seven points. Their next matchup against Malawi could see them join Burkina Faso in Morocco, depending on the outcome. Meanwhile, Burundi’s struggles continue, as they languish in third place with three points, and Malawi remains without a win. This competitive dynamic in Group L highlights the varying levels of performance and the potential for surprises as teams vie for qualification.
The upcoming AFCON in Morocco will be a historic occasion for Burkina Faso as they gear up for their 14th appearance in the tournament. Their best performance to date came 11 years ago when they finished as runners-up to Nigeria in South Africa. This time, hopes are high for the Stallions as they aim not just to participate but to make a significant impact in the tournament. The sense of optimism surrounding the team is palpable, especially after their recent successes in the qualifying rounds and the strategic leadership under Brama Traore.
Looking ahead, the qualification process remains active, with additional matches scheduled in the following days. Eight qualifiers are set for Monday, followed by another 15 on Tuesday, ensuring that many teams still have a chance to secure their spots for the finals. As the ultimate host nation, Morocco is automatically qualified and is participating in the qualifiers to enhance their match experience ahead of the tournament. This dual role underscores the importance of competitive readiness in the lead-up to an event as prestigious as the AFCON.
In summary, Burkina Faso’s success in qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations not only demonstrates the growth and potential of its football program but also signals the resilience and determination of the players and staff involved. The combination of past disappointments and recent victories shapes the narrative for the Stallions as they prepare for this next chapter in their football journey. With strong performances and strategic changes, Burkina Faso aims to capitalize on this opportunity and elevate their status in African football.
