The sun-drenched Stade Bouake is set to witness an exciting clash as Burkina Faso and Mauritania kick off their Africa Cup of Nations Group D campaign on Tuesday afternoon.
With Burkina Faso eyeing a return to the final and Mauritania eager to secure their first-ever tournament win, the stage is set for an intriguing battle.
Match Preview:
Burkina Faso has established themselves as contenders in recent AFCON editions, reaching the semi-finals or final in three of the last five tournaments.
However, after their impressive run to the final in 2013, they endured a group-stage exit in 2015 and missed out on the tournament altogether in 2019.
Under the guidance of experienced African football coach Hubert Velud, Burkina Faso aims to finish among the top two in Group D, along with Algeria.
Their route to the tournament wasn’t without challenges, but they managed to secure top spot in the qualifying group.
Despite some internal issues within the football association, the Stallions head into the tournament in good form, winning three of their last five matches, including a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in their final warm-up game.
Mauritania, on the other hand, has qualified for three consecutive AFCONs since 2019 but is yet to secure a win at the tournament.
However, their resilience and determination have been evident in their qualification journey, overcoming tough opponents like Sudan and Gabon.
The Lions of Chinguetti have made significant progress both on and off the pitch, and coach Amir Abdou aims to guide them beyond the group stage.
While their recent goalless draw with Tunisia offers some encouragement, their lack of goals in the previous three matches is a concern.
Nonetheless, Mauritania’s squad boasts talented players like captain Aly Abeid and winger Aboubakary Koita, who has been in impressive form for Sint-Truiden.
Team News:
Burkina Faso’s coach Velud has named a squad of 27 players, with several expected to make their AFCON debut.
Aston Villa’s Bertrand Traore, who has scored 17 goals for his country, will be a key figure if he recovers from injury in time.
The partnership between Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara and Cedric Badolo will be crucial to Burkina Faso’s attacking prowess.
Coach Abdou has also announced a 27-man squad for Mauritania, featuring notable names such as midfielder Ibrahima Keita and winger Aboubakary Koita.
Captain Aly Abeid and former Guingamp defender Guessouma Fofana provide experience and stability to the team.
Koita, in particular, has been in fine form, scoring 11 goals in just 20 Jupiler Pro League appearances this season.
Possible Lineups:
Burkina Faso: (4-4-2)
Konate;
Tapsoba, Dayo, Nagalo, Guiebre;
Blati Toure, Aziz Ki, Guira, Sangare;
Ouattara, Badolo
Mauritania: (4-3-3)
Niasse;
Keita, El Abd, N’Diaye, Abeid;
Gassama, Bouna, Thiam;
Mahmoud, Tanjy, Koita
Prediction: Burkina Faso 1-0 Mauritania
In what promises to be a tightly contested match, Burkina Faso’s experience and superior firepower could give them the edge. However, breaking down Mauritania’s resolute defense won’t be easy.