Burkina Faso became just the second-ever side in Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) history to beat Cape Verde in a group game, and could progress to the knockout phase after their 1-0 victory.
Burkina Faso began the match on a high note at the Paul Biya Stadium. Gustavo Sangaré came close with a whipped freekick, while Boureima Hassane Bandé’s close-range effort was denied by the Cape Verde shot-stopper.
Converting Issa Kaboré’s cross with a piece of brilliant improvisation, an acrobatic Hassane Bandé was able to knock the ball home from close range with his chest, just before the interval.
The Stallions had now scored the opening goal in six of their last seven AFCON encounters.
The Blue Sharks had their chances in the second half but unable to utilize any of it as captain Stopira unable to direct a free header goalwards and Garry Rodrigues stung the palms of goalkeeper Hervé Koffi with a drilled effort.
The victory sees the ‘Stallions’ leap up to second in Group A, three points behind leaders and host nation Cameroon.
MOLATsportgist 