The Burkina Faso women’s national football team completed another round of friendly matches in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations preparation. After a scoreless draw in their previous encounter, the Étalons Dames and the Malian Aiglonnes once again parted ways without a winner following a 2-2 stalemate this past Sunday at Ouagadougou’s Stade du 4 Août.
The visitors from Mali struck first, with Fatoumata Diarra capitalizing on a defensive lapse in the 10th minute to put her side ahead (0-1). The Burkina Faso side responded with composure, dominating possession and testing the Malian defense relentlessly. A rebound off the crossbar fell perfectly to Déborah Guira, who slotted home to restore parity (1-1).
The home side soon took the lead when Judicaëlle Ouoba unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner, leaving the Malian goalkeeper with no chance to react (2-1 at half-time). Despite Mali’s technical prowess, Burkina Faso’s tactical discipline and attacking flair proved decisive in Ouagadougou.
Mali fights back in the second half
In the second period, Burkina Faso controlled the midfield, but the Malian side continued to press forward, creating chances against a resolute defense. A late penalty, converted by Aissata Traoré, restored parity for Mali (2-2), and the match concluded with both teams striving for a winner until the final whistle.
This friendly clash marked the second time the two teams have met in preparation for the 2026 Women’s AFCON, following their initial goalless draw. Both nations are now fine-tuning their strategies ahead of the tournament in Morocco, where they will compete in what promises to be a highly competitive group stage.
The Burkina Faso team finds itself in a challenging group alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, and South Africa. Meanwhile, Mali faces Ghana, Cape Verde, and Cameroon in their group. The competition is scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 16, 2026.
Under the guidance of head coach Pascal Sawadogo, both squads used this match as a critical tuning session, ensuring their players are match-ready for the continental showpiece.
