Mali beat Burkina Faso 2:1 to qualify for AFCON2023 Quarterfinals

Mali lived up to their pre-tournament billing as one of the teams to go far in the competition and challenge for AFCON2023 trophy by beating Burkina Faso 2:1 today in their round of 16 match. They made a strong start as Burkina Faso defender Edmond Tapsoba inadvertently scored an own goal while trying to clear a cross, giving Mali a 1-0 advantage.

In the second half, Mali extended their lead to 2-0 when Lassine Sinayoko successfully found the back of the net after receiving a pass from Hamari Traore. Despite their efforts, Burkina Faso’s comeback hopes were dashed when Bertrand Traore converted a penalty in the 57th minute, resulting in a 2-1 scoreline. In the dying moments of the game, Burkina Faso captain Issoufou Dayo believed he had equalized with a header, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside position, ending the Burkinabe’s jubilant celebrations.