Burkina Faso secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Zambia on Wednesday 11 November 2026 in the first leg of their 2027 U23 Africa Cup of Nations second round qualifier at Stade du 4-Août in Ouagadougou.
Nouhoun Abdel Junior Kone scored the only goal midway through the first half, converting a cutback from Rachid Ayinde to hand the Young Stallions an important advantage ahead of Sunday’s return fixture.
The hosts, coached by Moussa Sanogo, known as Falcao, initially struggled to impose themselves before finding the breakthrough.
Zambia responded by creating several dangerous situations but the Burkinabè defence held firm to preserve the lead at half time.
The second half produced few clear opportunities for Burkina Faso while the Junior Chipolopolo pushed for an equaliser without finding a way through.
Despite their narrow advantage, the hosts maintained their defensive organisation to secure a valuable clean sheet.
Burkina Faso take slender lead to Lusaka
The victory puts Burkina Faso in a favourable position ahead of the second leg, scheduled for Sunday 15 November in Lusaka.
According to CAF’s official qualifying schedule, the match will kick off at 15:00 at National Heroes Stadium on Sunday.
A draw would be enough for Sanogo’s side to progress to the third and final qualifying round, while Zambia must overturn their one-goal deficit on home soil.
Seven teams will eventually emerge from the qualifiers to join hosts Egypt at the 2027 finals.
[Foot- Africa]
