Burkina Faso defender Edmond Tapsoba is aiming to write his name in his country’s footballing folklore by leading them to a first-ever World Cup appearance.
The 25-year-old, fresh off a Bundesliga and German Cup double with Bayer Leverkusen, received a hero’s welcome upon returning to his hometown of Ouagadougou.
“I want to give back all the happiness my people give me,” Tapsoba said in an exclusive interview with FIFA. “They never stop supporting and encouraging me.”
Nicknamed “Zaksoba” (meaning “the head of the house”) by his adoring fans, Tapsoba is determined to repay their faith by achieving a cherished dream – World Cup qualification.
“We’re working incredibly hard to get there,” declared the center-back. “Concentration is a key area we’re focusing on. We’re also learning from past generations and actively seeking advice from our elders.”
Tapsoba has been in dialogue with Burkina Faso legends like Jonathan Pitroipa, who were part of the agonizingly close 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign.
“They came so close but fell short against a strong Algeria team,” Tapsoba lamented, recalling the away-goal defeat in the CAF play-offs. “Winning the first leg 3-2 remains our greatest achievement in World Cup qualifying. The joy that swept the nation was incredible. Unfortunately, the second leg was more tactical, and Algeria edged us out 1-0.”
“The country deserves to experience that joy again, but for a prolonged period at the World Cup itself,” Tapsoba continued. “We have a blend of talented youngsters and experienced senior players. We must make our parents and supporters proud by flying the Burkina Faso flag high.”
Following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Burkina Faso underwent a coaching change. Brama Traore, who previously coached the U-20 and U-23 teams, took the reins in March.
“He knows us well and has been following us for a long time,” said Tapsoba. “He prioritizes discipline and isn’t afraid to be demanding when necessary.”
While their opening World Cup qualifiers haven’t yielded ideal results (a 2-1 loss to Egypt and a 2-2 draw with Sierra Leone), the Stallions remain in contention, sitting third in their group.
“We knew the road wouldn’t be easy, but we’re still in the fight,” Tapsoba emphasized. “The journey to North America is long, and I have unwavering faith in my team. We have a crucial second half of the campaign coming up, and we need to manage those fixtures much better.”
Burkina Faso’s quest for World Cup history continues, with Tapsoba leading the charge from the back. Their passionate fans and a renewed focus under Traore will be crucial if they are to reach the promised land.
