U23 AFCON 2027 (Q): Burkina Faso eliminated by Zambia

15.11.26 AP Africa U23 Cup of Nations

Zambia U23

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Burkina Faso U23

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A major disappointment for Burkina Faso. The U23 Stallions will not take part in the final tournament of the 2027 AFCON in Egypt. Away in Lusaka on Sunday, November 15, the Burkinabe side lost 1-0 to Zambia before going down 3-2 on penalties.

A one-goal advantage was not enough

Moussa Sanogo’s players had put themselves in a strong position in the first leg, played on November 11 in Ouagadougou. Their 1-0 win gave them a valuable advantage going into the away match in Zambia. But the Stallions came under pressure quickly. Determined to make up the deficit in front of their supporters, the Chipolopolo pressed high and launched wave after wave of attacks. At half-time, the score was still 0-0, a result that would have provisionally qualified Burkina Faso.

The second half proved more difficult for the visitors. Zambia stepped up their dominance and forced Moussa Sanogo’s men to retreat. The pressure finally paid off in the 82nd minute, when a goal drew the teams level on aggregate (1-1). Despite their efforts, the Stallions could not avoid a penalty shootout.

The Egyptian dream is over

In the decisive shootout, the Burkinabe side had little luck. Converting just two penalties to Zambia’s three, they saw their campaign end in the second preliminary round. Another qualifying campaign has therefore come to a premature end for Burkina Faso’s young hopefuls. After doing what was needed at home, the Stallions could not follow it up in Lusaka.

The side coached by Moussa Sanogo thus exits the U23 AFCON 2027 qualifiers and will now need to learn from this two-legged tie as it prepares for its next fixtures.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Zambia U23

Burkina Faso U23

Africa U23 Cup of Nations