An intense and drama-filled encounter unfolded in Casablanca as Burkina Faso faced Equatorial Guinea in a pivotal Group E qualifier for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. The match, marked by significant VAR interventions, saw a crucial goal disallowed for Burkina Faso and a red card issued to Equatorial Guinea, underscoring the high stakes in the tournament’s opening day. Despite a dominant performance from the Burkinabé side, the Equatorial Guinean defence, notably goalkeeper Jesus Owono, showcased remarkable resilience under relentless pressure.
Burkina Faso, known as Les Étalons, asserted their authority from the outset, dictating the tempo and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their attacking prowess was evident through the tireless efforts of captain Bertrand Traoré, who consistently troubled the Nzalang Nacional defence with his incisive runs and creative play. Traoré, a constant threat on the right flank, was instrumental in generating several early chances, often combining effectively with teammates like Sangaré and Yago.
Despite their overwhelming possession and a flurry of attempts, Burkina Faso struggled to convert their dominance into tangible goals. Key opportunities went begging, including a close-range header from Kaboré that sailed wide and a powerful strike from Sangaré that was well-saved. Ouattara also found himself in promising positions, only to be denied by last-ditch defending or excellent goalkeeping, leaving the Burkinabé faithful frustrated by the lack of a breakthrough.
Equatorial Guinea, while largely on the back foot, displayed commendable defensive discipline and fighting spirit. Their goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, emerged as a standout performer, making several crucial saves to keep his side in contention. Owono’s agility and command of his area were vital, notably deflecting a powerful shot from Ouattara in what was arguably the biggest chance of the match up to that point, and confidently dealing with numerous crosses and set-pieces.
The match took a dramatic turn with the dismissal of Equatorial Guinea’s left-back, Basilio Ndong. Initially cautioned with a yellow card for a challenge on Bertrand Traoré, the decision was upgraded to a straight red card after a VAR review. Replays confirmed Ndong had stepped on Traoré’s Achilles tendon, leaving the referee with little choice but to send off the distraught defender, reducing Equatorial Guinea to ten men and significantly altering the dynamics of the contest.
Further VAR drama ensued when Burkina Faso appeared to finally break the deadlock. Substitute Lassina Traoré, having just entered the field, quickly found the back of the net, sparking jubilant celebrations. However, the joy was short-lived as the Video Assistant Referee intervened. Following a meticulous review, the goal was ultimately disallowed due to a marginal offside position, denying Burkina Faso a crucial lead and maintaining the stalemate.
Even with a numerical advantage, Burkina Faso found it challenging to dismantle Equatorial Guinea’s resolute defence. The ten-man Nzalang Nacional dug deep, reorganising effectively and continuing to frustrate their opponents. While Burkina Faso intensified their attacks, Equatorial Guinea occasionally threatened on the counter, with Carlos Akapo notably unleashing a powerful cross-shot that narrowly missed the post, serving as a reminder of their potential to surprise.
The match, part of the opening round of Group E qualifiers for the CAN 2025, held at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca, Morocco, carried significant weight for both nations. Burkina Faso aimed to rebound from a missed World Cup qualification, while Equatorial Guinea sought to build on their improving continental record, having reached the quarter-finals and semi-finals in previous editions as hosts.
As the game progressed into its final quarter, the intensity remained high. Burkina Faso continued to press for a winning goal, introducing fresh legs in an attempt to exploit the tiring Equatorial Guinean defence. Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea, despite their disadvantage, fought valiantly, making tactical substitutions to shore up their ranks and cling to a potentially valuable point in a fiercely contested group that also includes Algeria and Sudan.
