In the final day of Group C in the 29th African Cup of Nations, Zambia faced Burkina Faso at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. Zambia, the reigning African champion, needed a victory to secure a spot in the quarter-finals, while Burkina Faso aimed to confirm their qualification with at least a draw. The match was crucial for both teams, and they sought to avoid elimination.
Zambia’s Starting Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Kennedy Mweene
- Defenders: Hichani Himonde, Davies Nkausu, Stoppila Sunzu, Emmanuel Mbola
- Midfielders: Rainford Kalaba, Nathan Sinkala, Issac Chansa, Chisamba Lungu
- Forwards: Emmanuel Mayuka, Collins Mbesuma
Burkina Faso’s Starting Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Daouda Diakite
- Defenders: Bakari Koné, Mohamed Koffi, Saidou Panandetiguiri, Paul Koulibaly
- Midfielders: Charles Kaboré, Djakaridja Kone, Jonathan Pitroipa
- Forwards: Benjamin Balima, Alain Traoré, Florent Rouamba
The match was set to determine which team would advance to the quarter-finals and continue their journey in the tournament.
