The Stallions of Burkina Faso have set a historic final with Nigeria after seeing off neighbours Ghana in 3-2 penalty win after 120 minutes of nerve racking game.
One all it ended after regulation time; a feisty, dramatic game laced with some controversial refereeing decisions but when it mattered most it was the Stallions who stepped up and with cool nerves converted three of their penalty kicks with goal keeper Diakite saving three of Ghana’s.
It was Wakaso Mubarak who opened Ghana’s account in the first half after the Stars were awarded a controversial penalty.
Christian Atsu fell easily in the vital area after he had a touch on his chest by his Burkinabe marker with the referee pointing to the spot, much to the anger of the Stallions.
Wakaso got his fourth goal of the tournament but it was Ghana who went on defensive duties with Rabiu Mohammed getting a yellow for a needless challenge on Bande.
Bande in a man-of-the-match performance dummied two of his markers but with just Fatau Dauda to beat he blasted wide.
It was Asamoah Gyan’s turn to increase Ghana’s goal tally after being played through beautifully by Christian Atsu but the Al Ain striker from an acute angle tried to meander the ball through. Diakite parried for a corner.
Solomon Asante who came on early for John Paintsil missed another great opportunity when his shot from close range took a ricochet for a corner.
More soon;