Burkina Faso secured a narrow victory against Mauritania with a dramatic 96th-minute penalty scored by Bertrand Traore.
The substitute expertly sent Mauritania's goalkeeper, Babacar Niasse, the wrong way from the spot, capitalizing on a foul committed by Nouh Mohamed El Abd on Issa Kabore in the penalty area.
Mauritania, on the verge of securing only their third-ever point at Afcon, had their hopes dashed in the final moments. Burkina Faso, traditionally strong in the tournament with three semi-final appearances in the last five Afcons, faced a tough challenge and struggled to showcase their best performance in Bouake.
Contrary to the expectations set by Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Algeria – all failing to win their opening matches – Burkina Faso narrowly avoided a similar fate. Despite not being at their peak, they created several scoring opportunities at the humid Stade de la Paix, including a close call from Adama Guira in the early minutes.
The Mauritanian keeper, Niasse, showcased his skills with two crucial late saves, denying Stephane Aziz Ki's attempt from a tight angle and tipping a powerful shot from Traore over the bar. Luton's Kabore initially went down in the penalty area without a call, but the VAR intervention prompted Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed to consult the pitchside monitor and award the penalty.
Aston Villa's Traore stepped up to break the deadlock and secure the victory for Burkina Faso. The outcome proved harsh on Mauritania, still seeking their first Afcon win. The underdogs had shown promise, with Stallions goalkeeper Herve Koffi making a brilliant save to tip Aboubakary Koita's first-half free-kick over the bar.
In the second half, Koffi continued his heroics, denying Sidi Amar with a diving save. Despite their efforts, Mauritania couldn't find the net, leaving them without the crucial goal that would have marked only their second goal at Afcon. The intense match unfolded with twists and turns, showcasing the unpredictability that makes the Africa Cup of Nations a captivating tournament.
