Burkina Faso head coach Issa Balbone says his side is ready for a fierce battle when they face Mauritania in the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday.
“We prepared for this match just as we have for the others. We must be fully ready,” Balbone said.
“We will choose the players in the best physical condition, the starting line-up is always based on readiness to defend our country’s colours.”
Balbone dismissed any sense of doubt in the camp. “We must not be pessimistic. We came to this tournament to compete, and we need to win to continue. I think every team in this tournament is here to honour their country, and in Burkina Faso we will give everything to stay as long as possible in this tournament.”
On the other hand, captain of Burkina Faso Patrick Malo has urged his teammates to seize the moment.
“Every match is important in this tournament. We always play with the same spirit and determination to win,” he said. “Personally, I feel in top form, and so do my teammates — everyone is focused on winning and continuing in the competition.”
Malo called on the squad to make their mark in Burkinabe football history; “We are here to make history, not just to participate. We must not waste this opportunity. History will remember us years from now as the team that achieved something special for its country.”
Reporting By: Pascal Amoah
