Jubilant crowds and football legends united in Burkina Faso on Monday to celebrate the reopening of the 4 August Stadium in Ouagadougou, paving the way for the return of international football matches after a three-year hiatus. President Ibrahim Traore, alongside African football icons, presided over the festivities, marking a significant moment for the nation.

The renovated stadium, named after the date Burkina Faso adopted its current identity in 1984, will once again host international competitions, with the national team slated to face Egypt in a crucial match this September.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved the stadium following its redevelopment.

El Hadji Diouf, former Liverpool star and Senegalese football legend, joined President Traore at the reopening, emphasising the unifying power of the sport. "It is Africa that wins. Today, we must show that we are a united Africa; we must stand together, join hands, and work so that Africa can move forward,” Diouf declared.

The reopening ceremony featured a celebratory gala match between African Legends, including Diouf, Samuel Eto'o, and Rigobert Song, and the Burkina Faso Defence and Security Forces. Performances from musicians and the military band added to the festive atmosphere, as thousands of spectators filled the stadium.

Diouf expressed gratitude to the Burkinabe authorities for entrusting African talent and promoting the continent's beauty.

He has consistently advocated for African football and structural reforms within the game, Viory News Agency reported.