AFCON 2025: Bertrand Traore to lead the Stallions
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All original articlesHe grew up under the spotlight, very early, sometimes too fast. At just 16 years old, Bertrand Traore played his first AFCON in 2012. Today, Bertrand Traoré arrives at AFCON 2025 with a fully assumed status: that of boss of the Stallions. At 30 years old, the Burkinabe captain is preparing to compete in his sixth Africa Cup, with his experience, his experience and a now unquestionable leadership.
When Bertrand Traoré discovers the AFCON in 2012, he is only 16 years old. Paulo Duarte dares the bet: throw a teenager into the big continental bath. Since then, time has done its work. 2012, 2015, 2017, 2021, 2023... and now 2025. Six AFCON played, an exceptional regularity in a Burkinabe selection often jostled by cycles and contexts. With 84 caps and 21 goals, the number 10 has become one of the most consistent faces in modern Burkinabe football.
A captain who finally assumes his status
For a long time perceived as pure, sometimes irregular talent, Bertrand Traoré gradually changed his tune. Fewer unnecessary flashes, more management, more responsibilities. Under Brama Traoré, who logically summoned him into the list of 25 players for , he is today the natural relay of the coach on the field. He speaks, he guides, he reassures. And above all, he takes responsibility. This edition in Morocco sees him no longer as a confirmed hope for the competition but as a leader expected to deliver.
A personal goal that connects to history
In the Africa Cup, Bertrand Traoré has already scored 5 goals in 19 matches.
A total that places him on equal footing with his brother Alain Traoré as the best scorer in the history of Burkina Faso in the final phase of the CAN. At 30 years old, the opportunity is clear. To become alone in the lead, inscribe one’s name a little higher in the collective memory of the Stallions. An individual goal that only makes sense if it is part of an ambitious collective journey.
A solid qualification but without brilliance
Placed in the group L during the qualifiers, with Senegal, Burundi and Malawi, the Stallions finished second with 10 points, behind an untouchable Senegal (16). Record: 3 wins, 1 draw, 2 defeats, 10 goals scored, 7 goals conceded. A correct campaign, but one that calls for more control and consistency in major events.
Morocco, a ceiling to be broken
Housed in group E with Algeria, Equatorial Guinea and Sudan, Burkina Faso knows that nothing will be simple. But recent history reminds us that the Stallions know how to go far: semi-finalists in 2017 and 2021. What they have lacked so far is perhaps that extra soul in key moments. Bertrand Traoré now fully assumes this role. At 30 years old, he is no longer the young prodigy. He is the man towards whom everything converges.