South Africa fall to Burkina Faso but secure U-17 World Cup berth

Burkina Faso secured a perfect group stage campaign at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday, sealing top spot in Group B with nine points.

Despite the defeat, South Africa held on to second place in the group and also booked their ticket to the quarter-finals — as well as a coveted place at 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 period.

Issouf Bara opened the scoring in the 65th minute, slotting home from close range after Asharaf Tapsoba provided a clever headed assist.

South Africa had their chances early in the match, including a first-half penalty awarded via VAR, but Neo Bohloko saw his spot kick saved by Burkina Faso goalkeeper Ali Koné in the 26th minute.

That proved a turning point as the West Africans grew in confidence.

Asharaf Tapsoba sealed the result with a superb strike from distance in the 89th minute, finding the bottom corner with a crisp finish to ensure Burkina Faso finished the group unbeaten and without conceding a goal in open play.

South Africa had efforts from Bohloko and Emile Witbooi, but struggled to find a breakthrough against a well-organised Burkina Faso defence.

The result leaves Burkina Faso on maximum points (9), while South Africa (4 points) edge through thanks to their earlier results against Egypt and Cameroon.

Both teams now shift focus to the quarter-finals and the bigger prize of chasing continental glory.