Burkina Faso snatched a remarkable, last-gasp victory in their opening Africa Cup of Nations match, scoring twice deep into stoppage time to defeat a resilient ten-man Equatorial Guinea 2-1 in Casablanca.
A Tale of Two Halves in Casablanca
The match, played at the Stade Mohammed V, saw Burkina Faso dominate the first half but fail to convert their pressure into goals. Premier League talents Bertrand Traoré of Sunderland and Brentford's Dango Ouattara were constant threats on the flanks, yet the sides went into the break level.
The game's complexion changed dramatically just five minutes after the restart. Equatorial Guinea defender Basilio Ndong received a red card following a VAR review of a clumsy challenge on Bertrand Traoré, forcing his side to play the remainder of the match with a numerical disadvantage.
Late Drama and a Stunning Turnaround
Despite their man advantage and sustained pressure, Burkina Faso were frustrated. A 71st-minute strike from substitute Lassina Traoré was ruled out for offside. Against the run of play, Marvin Anieboh headed Equatorial Guinea into an 85th-minute lead, connecting powerfully with a corner from Carlos Akapo.
Just as the match seemed lost, Burkina Faso launched an incredible comeback in added time. First, substitute Georgi Minoungou equalised in the 95th minute, finishing after a mazy run and cut-back from Ouattara. Then, with the clock showing 98 minutes, defender Edmond Tapsoba powered home a decisive header after goalkeeper Jesús Owono could only parry Cyriaque Irié's cross, sparking wild celebrations.
Group E Implications and Looking Ahead
This dramatic win gives Burkina Faso, known as The Stallions, a crucial three points at the start of their Group E campaign. The result heaps pressure on their group rivals, Algeria and Sudan, who face each other later. In the day's other fixtures in Group F, Côte d'Ivoire meet Mozambique while Cameroon take on Gabon.
The match will be remembered as one of the most thrilling openers of the tournament, showcasing the unpredictable and dramatic nature of the Africa Cup of Nations, where games are never over until the final whistle.
