Africa Cup of Nations Preview: Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso's participation at the Africa Cup of Nations was only confirmed a fortnight ago when a protest against an ineligible player they fielded during qualification was thrown out.

The Faso qualified for the tournament as winners of a three-team group that also contained Gambia and Namibia.

Coach Paulo Duarte is now in his second stint as coach of the Faso, having taken the nation to the tournament in 2008.

Group: B

Players to watch out for:

Charles Kabore

Kabore, 23, is seen as one of the most exciting African prospects. The defender was part of the Marseille side that won the French title in 2010.

Jonathan Pitroipa

The midfielder has impressed with clubs in Germany and France, with his direct style making him one to mark for opponents. He made his debut for the Faso five years ago and has been in the squad ever since.

Previous best: Semi-finals 1998

Odds to win outright: 22/1

Sports Mole says: Group stages