Burkina Faso’s national football team has announced a 27-man squad ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Djibouti and Egypt. Head coach Brahima Traoré has opted for a balanced selection, blending international experience with emerging talent, as the Stallions aim to strengthen their standing in Group A and stay in contention for a historic World Cup berth.
The goalkeeping department features four solid options: Hervé Koffi of Angers in France, Kilian Nikiema from ADO Den Haag in the Netherlands, Laje Sano of Sudanese giants Al Merrikh, and Clovis Bazimo from Africa Sports in Côte d’Ivoire. Each brings a different level of international exposure, giving the coaching staff depth and flexibility between the posts.
In defense, Burkina Faso boasts an impressive lineup of talent playing across Europe’s top leagues. Manchester City’s Issa Kaboré headlines the group, joined by Bayer Leverkusen's Edmond Tapsoba and PSV Eindhoven’s rising star Adama Nagalo. Nasser Djiga of Rangers also makes the cut, alongside experienced campaigners such as Steeve Yago (Aris Limassol), Arsène Kouassi (Lorient), Rachid Aiyndé (Belgium), and Issoufou Dayo (Umm Salal). This defensive unit combines physicality, pace, and technical awareness—qualities essential for the Stallions’ backline against two contrasting opponents.
The midfield has been reinforced with a diverse mix of playmakers and ball-winners. Blati Touré of Pyramids FC brings vital leadership and composure, while Cédric Badolo (Trnava), Mohamed Zougrana (MC Alger), and Razack Yoda (Milsami) add depth and creativity. Saïdou Simporé, currently playing for the National Bank of Egypt, joins Josué Tiendrebeogo (Annecy) and Georgie Minoungou (Seattle) to form a core capable of controlling the tempo and supporting both defense and attack.
Up front, Burkina Faso’s attack is spearheaded by their captain, Bertrand Traoré, who recently signed with Ajax. He is joined by Brentford’s Dango Ouattara, one of the most exciting Burkinabè forwards in Europe. Mohamed Konaté (Akhmat Grozny), Ousseni Bouda (San Jose Earthquakes), Cyriaque Irie (Freiburg), Faysal Konaté (Riga FS), and Landry Kaboré (Hearts of Oak) round out the attacking options, offering pace, flair, and finishing power.
The upcoming fixtures are critical as the Stallions aim to capitalize on their strong squad depth and competitive spirit. With Djibouti and Egypt posing very different challenges, the team will need tactical discipline and clinical execution to secure vital points. As anticipation builds, Burkina Faso’s footballing hopes rest on this dynamic group of players, determined to bring the nation closer to its World Cup dream.