Burkina Faso completed a perfect group stage at the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday, finishing top of Group B with nine points to qualify for the U17 World Cup.

Despite the loss, South Africa secured second place in the group, ensuring their advancement to the quarter-finals and a significant spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar later this year.

As a resu;t, both Burkina Faso and South Africa join Zambia and host Morocco in the quarter finals.

After a goalless first half at Stade Larbi Zaouli, Burkina Faso took control in the second half. Issouf Bara opened the scoring in the 65th minute, slotting home from close range after Asharaf Tapsoba provided a clever headed assist.

South Africa had their opportunities early in the match, including a first-half penalty awarded via VAR, but Neo Bohloko’s spot kick was saved by Burkina Faso goalkeeper Ali Koné in the 26th minute. This moment proved to be a turning point, as the West Africans gained confidence afterward.

Asharaf Tapsoba sealed the victory with an impressive strike from distance in the 89th minute, finding the bottom corner with a precise finish, ensuring that Burkina Faso completed the group stage unbeaten and without conceding a goal in open play.

South Africa had attempts from Bohloko and Emile Witbooi but struggled to break through against a well-organized Burkina Faso defense. The result means Burkina Faso finished with a maximum of nine points, while South Africa ended with four, advancing thanks to their earlier results against Egypt and Cameroon.

Both teams will now shift their focus to the quarter-finals and the pursuit of continental glory.

All four group winners and runners-up from the continental competition are guaranteed a ticket to the U-17 World Cup. The four third-place teams will enter a play-off to determine CAF’s final two representatives.