Ouagadougou: The Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Roland Somda, on Monday in Ouagadougou, encouraged the Cadet Stallions returning from the CAN in their category, "Morocco 2025," where they finished the competition just off the podium.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Minister of Sports, Roland, praised the performance of the Burkinabe team in the Cherifian Kingdom, stating that they "led a fight that deserves to be recognized at its true value." The head of the sports department expressed satisfaction with the Stallions' performance but emphasized the need for greater effort in upcoming competitions.

Minister Somda acknowledged the dedication of the team, appreciating the joy they brought to the people and the achievement of qualifying for the World Cup. He urged the team not to give up despite the challenges faced, emphasizing the importance of unity and perseverance. "Each of you has given more than you had. The people are grateful for the joy you have sown in their hearts. Qualifying for the World Cup is no small feat. The road is long. Just because we have stumbled doesn't mean you will give up. Continue to be this united team because the people believe in you. We have completed a battle, but it is a long-term war," he stated.

The Stallions returned from Morocco in the early morning of April 20th with a 4th place finish in the U17 CAN. Their striker, Ashsaraf Tapsoba, achieved the joint top scorer position alongside Ivorian Alynho Haidara, each scoring 7 times-a record in this youth competition. The tournament saw participation from 16 countries for the first time, instead of the usual 12, held from March 30th to April 19th, 2025, in Casablanca, Morocco. Morocco, the host country, won the competition on penalties (0-0, then 4-2) against Mali, while Ivory Coast completed the podium.