Burkina Faso: Coach Balboné laments lack of edge after CHAN defeat to Mauritania
Burkina Faso coach Issa Balboné has admitted his side fell short in their bid to progress in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a narrow loss to Mauritania’s Mourabitounes in Group B.
Speaking after the match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Balboné said his players showed determination but lacked the decisive aggression needed to win.
“Offensively, we were non-existent because we had a lot of chances that we didn’t capitalize on. That’s what was lacking tonight. They were aggressive on the ball but not on the opponent,” the coach told reporters.
Balboné also voiced frustration at the officiating, particularly a red card shown to one of his players. “The red card destabilized us. Our player played the ball, the opponent hit him, and the referee showed a red card. I don’t know if it was the VAR or the referee who made the decision. I don’t think there was a foul,” he said.
While acknowledging the controversial refereeing, Balboné accepted that responsibility for the defeat lay both with the players and the coaching team. He insisted, however, that he had selected the best available squad.
“They are the players in form at the moment. I played football and I think there is often poor form and everything that happens at the highest level. I think these kids have learned a lot and from now on they will be able to compete well,” he said.
Striker Yves Koutiama echoed the disappointment, saying: “Not everything went well. We had to win the match to be able to continue. We lost and we are really disappointed with this defeat and the elimination. We will continue to work to create beautiful play and be able to finish with goals.”
Burkina Faso’s exit at the group stage mirrors their performances in the 2014, 2018, and 2021 editions of the tournament. They will conclude their CHAN campaign against Madagascar on Saturday, 16 August, in Zanzibar.
The 2024 CHAN, hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, was postponed to 2025 and runs from 2 to 30 August.
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