TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Know the Coach: Issa Balboné (Burkina Faso)
The TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 provides a platform for Africa's most talented local players and their coaches to shine on the continental stage.
Leading Burkina Faso’s charge is Issa Balboné, a seasoned tactician with a wealth of experience and a history of lifting his teams to new heights.
Tasked with bringing out a more competitive face of the Stallions, Balboné aims to guide his side to unprecedented success in a tournament that has historically eluded them.
Coach Profile: Issa Balboné
- Name: Issa Balboné
- Country of Birth: Burkina Faso
- Age: 51
- Current Team: Burkina Faso A’
Career Highlights
Issa Balboné’s coaching journey has been one of consistent growth and determination. As the head coach of Burkina Faso's U23 national team, he steered the side to the final of the 2015 African Games football tournament in Brazzaville, showcasing exceptional tactical acumen despite narrowly losing to Senegal.
Transitioning from a playing career to coaching, Balboné has made significant contributions to Burkina Faso’s domestic league, leading clubs such as UFSA, AS Police, and Canon du Sud to prominence.
In April 2024, he was appointed head coach of both Burkina Faso’s local national team and the U23 side. His first mission was a resounding success: qualifying Burkina Faso for the CHAN 2024. This achievement was particularly impressive as it came after overturning a 2-0 first-leg defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in the qualifiers. Balboné also serves as an assistant coach for the senior national team under Brama Traoré, underlining his importance to Burkinabé football.
Playing Style
Balboné is renowned for his strategic approach to games. A master tactician, he excels at reading opponents and adapting his game plans accordingly. His tactical intelligence was on full display during the CHAN qualifiers, where his team’s adjustments neutralized Côte d’Ivoire’s advantage and propelled the Stallions to victory.
CHAN Experience
The 2024 edition marks Balboné’s debut as head coach in the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN. In Burkina Faso’s previous three CHAN appearances, the team was led by different coaches—Brama Traoré (2014), Drissa Traoré Malo (2018), and Seydou Zerbo (2021). Balboné will look to surpass their efforts and write a new chapter in Burkina Faso’s CHAN history.
Did You Know?
Burkina Faso has only one victory in the final stages of the CHAN across three previous appearances. Balboné is determined to change that narrative and lead the Stallions to a competitive showing in 2024.
Outlook for CHAN 2024
Issa Balboné’s leadership represents a fresh start for Burkina Faso’s CHAN aspirations. With his strategic mind, deep understanding of the game, and ability to inspire his players, Balboné will aim to break the Stallions’ group-stage barrier and mount a strong challenge in East Africa.
With Burkina Faso placed in a tough group, Balboné’s ability to rally his side and instill confidence will be key. Fans will be hoping that his debut CHAN campaign will mark the beginning of a new era for Burkinabé football.