Burkina Faso defender Issoufou Dayo has reversed his international retirement and returned to the national squad ahead of the Stallions’ Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA AFCON 2027 qualifying double-header against Mauritania.
The 34-year-old Wydad AC centre-back announced his retirement from international football in January following the Africa Cup of Nations but has been included in coach Amir Abdou’s 25-man squad for the November fixtures.
Dayo’s return is accompanied by the recalls of midfielder Josué Tiendrébéogo and Sacha Banse, who is back after several months out with injury.
The trio’s return strengthens Abdou’s options as Burkina Faso seek to consolidate their position in Group F following the opening two rounds of qualifying.
The squad also features several established internationals, including Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba, Nasser Djiga, forward Dango Ouattara and goalkeeper Hervé Koffi.
In midfield, Ismahila Ouédraogo, Mohamed Zougrana, Lohann Doucet and Rachid Kouda have retained their places, while the attacking options include Lassina Traoré, Cyriaque Irié, Georgi Minoungou and Ousséni Bouda.
The two matches against Mauritania represent an important opportunity for the Stallions to strengthen their qualification prospects ahead of the final rounds of the campaign.
Dayo’s return is expected to add experience and leadership to the defence, where he has been a regular figure for Burkina Faso over several years.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
