By Boris Esono
Sports Writer, Kick442.com-Cameroon
The Under 17 Lions got their TotalEnergies U-17 AFCON to a disappointing start after the side was beaten 2-1 on Monday by Burkina Faso in the Group B opener in Morocco.
The win for the Baby Stallions of Burkina Faso was inspired by Asharaf Tapsoba, whose first-half brace ensured the former champions began their title chase on a high note. It also reaffirms Burkina Faso’s status as strong contenders for the title, with Tapsoba emerging as one of the standout players to watch in the tournament.
The match kicked off with high intensity as both teams looked to stamp their authority early on in the tournament. Burkina Faso, who last won the U-17 AFCON title in 2011, had a clear game plan – to capitalize on their attacking strengths. Their star forward, Asharaf Tapsoba, wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Coming into the tournament on the back of an impressive qualification campaign, where he scored twice in the WAFU B final against Côte d’Ivoire, Tapsoba carried his fine form into Morocco. He opened the scoring in the 19th minute. The goal settled the nerves of the young Stallions, who gradually took control of the game.
As the first half progressed, Cameroon tried to respond but struggled to break through a well-organized Burkinabe defense. The pressure mounted on the Cameroonian backline, and Tapsoba doubled his tally in the 41st minute, to give his side a comfortable 2-0 lead at halftime.
After the break, Cameroon came out determined to turn the game around. The baby Lions launched wave after wave of attacks, searching for an early second-half goal to get back into the contest. Burkina Faso, however, remained disciplined at the back, frustrating their opponents with resolute defending.
The breakthrough finally came for Cameroon in the 75th minute when David Nyangono found the back of the net, reducing the deficit to 2-1. The goal ignited hopes of a dramatic comeback, as Cameroon piled on the pressure in the closing stages.
Despite their best efforts, Cameroon could not find the all-important equalizer. Burkina Faso’s defense held firm, ensuring they secured all three points in their opening match of the tournament.
With this crucial win, Burkina Faso will now shift their attention to their next match.
The side will take on Egypt, a side that lost its first match against South Africa on Thursday. A victory there could see the side edge closer to the knockout stages. Meantime, Cameroon will have to regroup as they face South Africa on matchday two. The baby Lions will need a victory to keep their hopes alive of progressing.
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