2026 Women's AFCON: behind the scenes of the preparation of Burkina Faso's Étalons Dames
As part of their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the Étalons Dames of Burkina Faso played a double friendly encounter against the Aigles Dames of Mali at the Stade du 4-Août in Ouagadougou. These two matches allowed the Burkinabè technical staff, led by Pascal Sawadogo, to observe the group’s progress and fine-tune the final adjustments before the continental event.
Ablam GNAMESSO · Author profile ·
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On June 4, the two teams finished with a goalless draw (0-0). Dominant in the first half, the Malian women imposed their rhythm and experience. However, the Burkina Faso Etalons Ladies managed to hold firm and gradually took the initiative after the break, showing themselves to be more enterprising. Both sides demonstrated great defensive solidity, keeping their goals untouched until the final whistle.
A more open and spectacular second leg
On June 7, the second leg presented a very different face. In a committed and intense match, both Burkina Faso and Mali ended on level terms (2-2). After the lackluster first leg, the public was treated to a real attacking spectacle. Facing a solid and experienced Malian team, the Burkina Faso Etalons Ladies displayed character, fighting spirit, and a remarkable capacity to stand up in the duels.
This double encounter proved to be an excellent opportunity for coach Pascal Sawadogo and his staff to assess the group’s form, to test automatisms, and to identify areas for improvement. The progress observed, especially in the ability to compete with an experienced nation like Mali, is encouraging.
Towards an ambitious AFCON
These two friendly matches against Mali mark an important step in the Burkina Faso Etalons Ladies’ preparation. They show a team determined to defend Burkina Faso’s colors with ambition at the 2026 Women’s AFCON. The group continues to gain maturity and cohesion, ingredients that are essential for performing on the continental stage.
The coming weeks will be decisive in refining the strategy and finalizing the list of players who will have the heavy but thrilling task of representing Burkina Faso in Morocco. The road is still long, but the signals sent out during this double encounter are positive.