In a match that remained goalless, Burkina Faso secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, while the reigning champions Zambia were eliminated. Here are the key points from the encounter:
- Lackluster First Half: The first half of the match was described as insipid, with both teams struggling to create clear scoring opportunities. The players returned to the pitch for the second half with more enthusiasm.
- Increased Alertness: The second half saw an improvement in the alertness of both teams. The pace of the game picked up, but neither side could manage to find the decisive goal.
- Zambia’s Threat: Facing the threat of elimination, Zambia applied pressure on Burkina Faso’s defense. The Chipolopolo had several opportunities from fouls and corners but were unable to capitalize on them.
- Burkina Faso’s Offensive Struggle: Burkina Faso, missing key player Alain Traoré since the 10th minute, struggled to provide a significant offensive threat. Jonathan Pitroipa, usually a good ball handler, had a subdued performance.
- Late Attempts: It wasn’t until the 80th minute that Burkina Faso managed a notable attempt on goal, with Charles Kaboré’s shot blocked by a Zambian player. Despite being informed of the result between Nigeria and Ethiopia, Zambia couldn’t break the deadlock.
- 0-0 Draw: The match ended in a 0-0 draw, with neither team able to score. Burkina Faso secured first place in Group C, ensuring their qualification for the quarter-finals.
- Zambia’s Elimination: With three draws in the group stage, Zambia faced elimination from the tournament. This marked the second time in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations that the defending champion was eliminated in the group stage, the first being Algeria in 1992.
- Burkina Faso Advances: Burkina Faso’s qualification for the quarter-finals marked their progression in the tournament. The Stallions, despite not being convincing, secured their place in the knockout stages.
- Defending Champions Out: The elimination of Zambia signaled the end of their title defense. The result set the stage for a new champion to emerge in the competition.
- Race for Succession: With the defending champion exiting, the race for succession in the Africa Cup of Nations intensified, creating anticipation for the knockout stages.
Burkina Faso’s journey in the tournament continued, while Zambia faced disappointment with their early exit.
