Korhogo – Burkina Faso’s football team coach, Hubert Velud, expressed high ambitions for his team’s qualification to the quarter-finals of the 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) Côte d’Ivoire 2023. This statement was made during a pre-match press conference on Monday, ahead of their knockout stage match against Mali.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the team had a week to recover and prepare, and he is optimistic about their physical and tactical readiness, despite the absence of player Guira. “Our team indicators are green. Everyone is present, and we are ready, even though we haven’t finalized a game system yet. We have worked on several aspects,” Velud noted. He emphasized the team’s good spirit and strong desire to progress in the tournament.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by Mali, who finished first in their group, Velud expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities. “Mali, like Burkina Faso, are nations on the rise. We are ready and have our arguments,” he said.
Reflecting on the lessons from the match against Angola, which Burkina Faso lost 0-2, Velud highlighted the benefits of that game in making necessary adjustments. “The match against Angola extended the playing time for some players and provided rest for others who needed it,” he explained.
Steeve Yago, one of the team’s most experienced players, emphasized the team’s focus and the valuable advice they received from retired players. “Our alumni have been in constant contact with the group, sharing their experience. We are fully focused, knowing that a single mistake can be costly in these direct elimination matches,” Yago stated.
The upcoming match between Burkina Faso and Mali, two neighboring West African countries, is scheduled for Tuesday, January 30, at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly stadium in Korhogo from 5 pm UT. In their last five encounters, Mali has won four matches and drawn one.