The Burkina Faso women’s national team concluded another round of friendly matches ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). After a goalless opener, the Étalons dames and the Malian Aiglonnes played out a thrilling 2-2 draw this past Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Stade du 4 Août in Ouagadougou.

Action got off to a fast start as Mali struck early. By the 10th minute, Fatoumata Diarra had put the visitors ahead with a clinical finish (0-1). Burkina Faso responded with composure, dominating possession and testing the Malian defense repeatedly.

A rebound off the crossbar fell to Deborah Guira, who tucked it into the net to level the score at 1-1. The equalizer injected energy into the hosts’ performance, and they soon took the lead through a well-worked move orchestrated by Judicaëlle Ouoba, whose shot found the top corner beyond the reach of the Malian goalkeeper (2-1). The score held at halftime.

Mali fights back in the second half

Burkina Faso controlled the ball in the second period, yet Mali’s attackers struggled to break through a disciplined defensive block. In the 68th minute, however, a penalty awarded after a challenge inside the box was converted by Aissata Traoré, restoring parity at 2-2. The final whistle confirmed the draw after a late push from both sides.

These back-to-back friendlies—both ending in stalemates—serve as vital preparation for the WAFCON finals, set to take place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, 2026. Burkina Faso will face Ivory Coast, Tanzania, and South Africa in Group B, while Mali will tackle Ghana, Cape Verde, and Cameroon in Group D.

The Burkina Faso squad, led by head coach Pascal Sawadogo, continues to refine its tactics and chemistry ahead of the tournament, aiming to peak at the right moment when the competition begins.