Burkina Faso captain Bertrand Traoré has strongly criticised Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea following the Stallions’ 1-0 loss to Algeria.
Speaking after the match, Traoré expressed frustration with the officiating, saying the referee’s decisions spoiled the game and reflected badly on African football. According to him, Burkina Faso conceded the decisive goal from a penalty, but he believes his team should have been awarded a penalty at the very start of the match.
“The referees are ruining the game,” Traoré said. “It is a shame for African football. We have good stadiums and great fans, but matches are being spoiled by poor decisions.”
The Aston Villa winger also questioned the referee’s refusal to consult VAR. He claimed the referee was advised through his headset to review the incident but chose not to do so.
“He didn’t even go to check the screen,” Traoré added. “He was told about it, but he stuck to his decision. At the end, he even pushed me. This is very disappointing.”
Traoré concluded by saying losing fairly is part of football, but poor officiating should not determine the outcome of games or damage the credibility of the tournament.
Burkina Faso were beaten 1-0 by Algeria in the encounter.
