Burkina Faso triumphed in the WAFU Zone B U-17 AFCON qualifying tournament with a thrilling 3-1 victory over Cote d’Ivoire in Tuesday’s final held at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The Young Stallions, displaying remarkable resilience and tenacity, came from behind to secure their championship title.
Forward Asharaf Tapsoba was the hero of the match, netting a crucial brace that inspired Burkina Faso to glory. Despite Cote d’Ivoire’s technical dominance and early control, it was Tapsoba’s clinical finishing that made the difference in this fiercely contested derby in Accra.
The game began with Cote d’Ivoire exerting pressure and controlling possession, but it was Tapsoba who broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, giving Burkina Faso the lead.
However, the Ivorians quickly responded through Mohammed Diarra, who equalized just three minutes later, setting up a tense and evenly matched first half.
The second half saw Tapsoba once again rise to the occasion, restoring Burkina Faso’s advantage just five minutes after the restart. Latching onto a superb through ball, Tapsoba fired home, putting the Young Stallions back in front and shifting the momentum in their favor.
Cote d’Ivoire fought valiantly, pushing forward in search of an equalizer, but Burkina Faso’s defense held firm.
The final nail in the coffin came in the dying moments of the match when Cherif Aboubacar Sawadogo scored a third goal, sealing the victory and sparking jubilant celebrations among the Burkinabe contingent.
This victory not only crowned Burkina Faso as WAFU B U-17 champions but also secured their place at the upcoming U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. The win continues the success of their youth teams, following their triumph in the previous tournament.
In the third-place playoff earlier in the day, Nigeria edged out hosts Ghana with a narrow 3-2 win, rounding off a day of high drama and excitement in Accra.
Photo: CAF Online
