Casablanca: Burkina Faso Cadet Stallions coach Oscar Barro expressed his team's intent to finish at the top of Group B in the ongoing U17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) during a training session in Mohammedia, a suburb of Casablanca. The team is set to face South Africa U17 in the third and final group match, a decisive encounter that will determine the group leader.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Coach Barro emphasized the importance of securing the top spot to build confidence for the remainder of the competition. Despite the absence of key players, including team captain Fadila Barro due to suspension and Mohamed Sako and Assifou Kon© with knee injuries, Barro remains optimistic. He stated that this situation provides an opportunity for other players in the squad to showcase their abilities, highlighting the depth of the 23-member team.
Having analyzed South Africa's performance in the tournament, Barro described them as a challenging opponent with technical prowess and dynamic players. He stressed the need for a cohesive team effort to effectively counter South Africa's strengths and capitalize on Burkina Faso's capabilities.
Burkinabe striker Lassana Bagayogo echoed the coach's sentiments, emphasizing the team's determination to win and secure the group's top position. He noted the team's positive trajectory since the competition's outset and the importance of adhering to the coaches' strategies to clinch victory.
Defender Issouf Dabo, who scored against Egypt, expressed confidence in the team's preparations and mindset. Despite having already qualified, Dabo assured that the team would approach the match with seriousness and strive for success, treating it as any other crucial game.
The outcome of the match will determine Burkina Faso's next opponent, with the group leader facing the second-place team in Group A, which includes host nation Morocco. Currently, Burkina Faso leads Group B with 6 points and a +2 goal difference, followed by South Africa with 4 points and a neutral goal difference, Cameroon with 1 point, and Egypt yet to secure any points. The U17 CAN is scheduled to take place in the Cherifian Kingdom from March 30 to April 19, 2025.