Burkina Faso clinched a hard-fought 2-0 victory against Burundi, with a stoppage-time penalty from Bertrand Traore ensuring all three points for the visitors. The Burkinabe took an early lead in the first half through Konate, who finished off a well-placed assist from Badolo, making their intentions clear from the start.
Despite the early setback, Burundi fought hard to change the narrative before the break but couldn’t breach the Burkina Faso defense. The visitors maintained their narrow 1-0 lead going into halftime.
In the second half, Burundi pressed for an equalizer, showing spirit and determination. However, the Burkinabe remained relentless, continuing to threaten the home side’s defense. They came close to doubling their lead when a rebound effort hit the post, following an excellent save by goalkeeper Nahimana, who denied a well-crafted chance.
The breakthrough finally came deep into stoppage time when a Burkina Faso player was brought down inside the box. Bertrand Traore stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, sealing the 2-0 victory.
This win solidifies Burkina Faso’s position at the top of the standings, leaving Burundi with an uphill task in their qualification campaign. The Burkinabe’s persistence and clinical finishing proved the difference in a closely contested encounter.
