Burkina Faso were crowned champions of the WAFU Zone B U-17 AFCON qualifying tournament after a pulsating 3-1 victory over Cote d’Ivoire in Tuesday’s final in Ghana.
The Young Stallions had to come from behind at the University of Ghana Stadium, with forward Asharaf Tapsoba netting a brace to inspire his side to glory.
Despite Cote d’Ivoire dominating large periods with their technical superiority, Burkina Faso displayed tremendous resilience to prevail in a memorable derby encounter in Accra.
The Ivorians had drawn first blood when Mohammed Diarra equalized just three minutes after Tapsoba’s 26th minute opener to make it 1-1 at the break.
But Tapsoba restored Burkina Faso’s advantage five minutes into the second period, rifling home after a superb through ball to edge his team back in front.
The Ivorians threw everything at their opponents in search of a late leveller, but it was Burkina Faso who had the final say as Cherif Aboubacar Sawadogo made it 3-1 with a minute remaining to spark wild celebrations.
The result sees the Young Stallions follow in the footsteps of their predecessors by claiming regional success, having won the previous tournament.
Their victory not only hands them the WAFU B U-17 title but also seals a place at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Meanwhile Nigerian finished third when they defeated hosts Ghana 3-2 in the third place playoff played earlier in the day in Accra.