Africa: Egypt takes a step towards the 2026 World Cup by beating Burkina Faso
For the third matchday of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Egypt hosted Burkina Faso. After two initial victories, Egypt is the undisputed leader of Group A with 6 points and a very favorable goal difference (+8). For its part, Burkina Faso occupies second place with 4 points.
After a disappointing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, both nations hope to redeem themselves during these qualifiers with good results.
To face the Pharaohs, the Stallions had to play without three of their key players. Hervé Koffi, the goalkeeper from Sporting Charleroi, could not attend due to an injury. Bertrand Traoré, who had an impressive end of the season with Villarreal, was not called up. Finally, defender Issoufou Dayo from RS Berkane was left out by coach Brama Traoré.
On the Pharaohs’ side, Mohamed Salah, who scored 25 goals and provided 13 assists in all competitions, was present for this match. Mostafa Mohamed, who helped FC Nantes stay in Ligue 1 with 8 goals and 2 assists, and Trezeguet, the Trabzonspor striker with 10 goals and 5 assists in 25 matches, were also part of the team.
The match started strong for Egypt, who opened the scoring in the 4th minute with a header from Trezeguet on a pass from Salah. In the 8th minute, Trezeguet doubled the score, making it 2-0. Burkina Faso had some opportunities, notably with Dango Ouattara, but failed to capitalize before halftime.
After the break, the changes made by Brama Traoré paid off. Franck Lassina Traoré reduced the score in the 57th minute. Despite an improvement in the Burkinabe play, Egypt held firm, with some decisive saves from their goalkeeper El Shennawy.
