CASABLANCA: IN a match brimming with tension and twists, Burkina Faso secured a 2-1 victory over Equatorial Guinea in their Group E Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash at Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, yesterday, thanks to a dramatic late comeback.
Equatorial Guinea looked to have the upper hand when Marvin Anieboh broke the deadlock in the 84th minute with a well-placed header from a corner expertly delivered by Carlos Akapo.
But Burkina Faso refused to buckle under pressure. Just minutes from the final whistle, Georgi Minoungou struck to level the scores, converting a precise assist from Dango Ouattara.
And with time running out, Edmond Tapsoba secured the win with a powerful header, following a rebound off the goalkeeper from a Cyriaque Irié attempt.
The match had hinted at drama from the outset. Burkina Faso were quickest to spark action, with Bertrand Traoré darting past a cluster of defenders just three minutes in, unleashing a thunderous shot that narrowly missed the post.
Pierre Kabore almost added to the early excitement in the seventh minute, only for his strike to veer just wide.
Equatorial Guinea was not content to sit back. Luis Asue chased a long ball and attempted a shot from distance, while José Machín led a lightning counterattack in the 23rd minute, firing just over the crossbar.
Despite their chances, the first half ended goalless. The second half delivered early controversy. Barely moments after the restart, Basilio Ndong lunged at Traoré, initially earning a yellow card.
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Following a VAR review, the decision was upgraded to a red, reducing Equatorial Guinea to 10 men. Burkina Faso pressed their advantage.
Ouattara’s low drive in the 58th minute was superbly saved by Jesús Owono, while Stephane Aziz Ki was also denied in a one-on-one moment.
Yet, despite being a man down, Equatorial Guinea struck first through Anieboh, only for Burkina Faso to turn the game in the dying minutes.
The victory will provide a significant boost for Burkina Faso, who showed resilience, patience and clinical finishing under immense pressure.
For Equatorial Guinea, it was a game of missed opportunities and late heartbreak.