AFCON 2023: Why Burkina Faso could finally lift the trophy

What if AFCON 2023 were to belong to Burkina Faso? In 12 appearances, the Etalons have never managed to lift the continental trophy. The 13th appearance could be the one for Bertrand Traoré's team-mates. Drawn in Group D with Mauritania, Algeria and Angola, the Etalons have every chance of making their mark.

One final and three semi-finals at AFCON

Burkina Faso can dream of winning the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Semi-finalists on their debut in 1998, the Etalons came so close to that goal in 2013 when they reached the final. Unfortunately, they ran into Nigeria, under the late Stephen Keshi. The Super Eagles won by the narrowest of margins (1-0). Since then, Burkina Faso have been doing their best to get their name on the list of winners of this prestigious competition. They reached the semi-finals twice, in 2017 and 2021. Even though they have yet to win AFCON, the Etalons have gained experience that should serve them well in Côte d'Ivoire.

Bertrand Traoré with his lieutenant Dango Ouatara

If Burkina Faso want to win AFCON 2023, they will need formidable attackers capable of making the difference. Bertrand Traoré remains the number 1 attacking weapon of this Burkinabé side. At his 4th AFCON, the Etalons captain hopes finally to win this trophy. An Africa U17 champion and the national team's 5th-highest scorer of all time with 17 goals, the man with 74 caps will spearhead this Burkinabè attack. In this quest, Bertrand Traoré will not be alone. He will be supported by young forwards such as Dango Ouatara. Goalless for his club this season, Dango Ouatara remains decisive at international level. The Bournemouth forward helped his side qualify for AFCON by scoring four goals, including a brace against Eswatini (3-1).

Impressive in Cameroon, can Kaboré and Touré do it again?

Issa Kaboré and Blati Touré made a big impression at AFCON 2021. Kaboré covered kilometres down his right flank. Breathtaking and unstoppable, Issa Kaboré was impressive both defensively and going forward. The tournament's top assist provider with four, he was awarded the AFCON best young player trophy. And what can be said of Blati Touré, who was arguably one of the best box-to-box midfielders of AFCON 2021? With his touch and his passing, he was a joy to watch in Cameroon. The Etalons midfielder was also unbeatable in the duels. It is no coincidence that he was named man of the match three times at AFCON 2021. Like Bertrand Traoré and Dango Ouattara, these two players hope to take Burkina Faso to the top in Côte d'Ivoire.

Reinforcements in defence

For AFCON 2023, Hubert Velud has called up 27 players. And 11 Etalons will make their AFCON debut. The French coach has strengthened mainly in defence, with gems who will support Edmond Tapsoba. Promising newcomers who could help Burkina Faso to ultimate victory.

Read also: Burkina Faso: meet the 11 Etalons who will play in their first AFCON