2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Burkina Faso’s Yago Slams Qualification Format After Nigeria’s Playoff Progress

2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Burkina Faso’s Yago Slams Qualification Format After Nigeria’s Playoff Progress

Sampson Adedeji

Burkina Faso defender Steve Yago has voiced his displeasure with the qualification system that saw Nigeria advance to the CAF World Cup playoffs ahead of the Stallions, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Despite a strong finish to their campaign, Burkina Faso narrowly missed out on a playoff spot, and Yago didn’t hide his frustration over the outcome.

“Honestly, it’s strange you win your matches against the weakest team in your group, yet Nigeria is ahead of you, even though they haven’t beaten Zimbabwe, who are bottom of theirs,” Yago lamented.

 “Apparently, beating the last team is too mainstream. Thank you, CAF and FIFA! My career is nearing its end, so maybe I’ll start studying this system just to criticize it properly soon.”

Yago’s remarks echo the growing dissatisfaction among Burkinabe players and supporters, who believe the qualification format favoured certain nations.

Nigeria clinched the playoff ticket on goal difference after finishing level on points with Burkina Faso a result that has fueled heated debate across the continent.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has yet to issue an official response, but calls for greater fairness and transparency in the qualification process are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.