Burkina Faso and Mali settle for 2-2 draw in WAFCON 2026 preparation friendly

The Stallions women of Burkina Faso have concluded another series of friendly matches as they gear up for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). After a goalless draw earlier, Burkina Faso and Mali once again shared the spoils with a 2-2 stalemate on Sunday, 7 June 2026 at the Stade du 4 Août in Ouagadougou.

Mali drew first blood in this friendly encounter. In the 10th minute, Fatoumata Diarra put the Aiglonnes ahead (0-1). The Stallions remained composed and quickly regained their rhythm. They controlled possession and forced the Malian side to chase the game.

After a shot that struck the crossbar, Deborah Guira followed up and slotted the ball into the net to level the score (1-1).

Despite the technical quality of the Aiglonnes, the Burkinabè imposed their style of play. With another fine build-up, Judicaëlle Ouoba found the top corner, leaving the Malian goalkeeper with no chance. Coach Pascal Sawadogo’s side took the lead (2-1), which remained the score at halftime.

Mali fights back

In the second half, the Stallions enjoyed better ball possession, while Mali attacked without seriously troubling the Burkinabè defensive organisation.

Eventually, a penalty converted by Aissata Traoré brought Mali back level (2-2). That remained the final score, even though both teams pushed hard until the final whistle.

In their first meeting, the two sides had played out a 0-0 draw. These matches are part of preparations for the WAFCON finals scheduled to take place in Morocco.

Burkina Faso have been drawn in a group with Ivory Coast, Tanzania, and South Africa. Mali will face Ghana, Cape Verde, and Cameroon in their group.

The tournament is set to run from 25 July to 16 August 2026. This friendly offered coach Pascal Sawadogo and his players another valuable opportunity to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the competition.