Burkina Faso completed a perfect group stage at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday, finishing at the top of Group B with nine points.
Despite the loss, South Africa secured second place in the group and advanced to the quarter-finals, also earning a spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar later this year.
After a goalless first half at Stade Larbi Zaouli, Burkina Faso took control in the second half. Issouf Bara scored the opening goal in the 65th minute, slotting in from close range after Asharaf Tapsoba provided a clever headed assist.
South Africa had opportunities early in the match, including a first-half penalty awarded via VAR. However, Neo Bohloko’s spot kick was saved by Burkina Faso goalkeeper Ali Koné in the 26th minute, a moment that proved pivotal as the West Africans gained confidence.
Asharaf Tapsoba sealed the victory with a stunning strike from distance in the 89th minute, finding the bottom corner with a precise finish, ensuring that Burkina Faso finished the group stage unbeaten and without conceding a goal in open play.
South Africa created chances through Bohloko and Emile Witbooi, but they struggled to break through a well-organized Burkina Faso defense.
The result leaves Burkina Faso with a maximum of nine points, while South Africa ends with four points and advances, thanks to earlier results against Egypt and Cameroon.
Both teams will now shift their focus to the quarter-finals as they pursue continental glory.
