Burkina Faso’s opening Africa Cup of Nations match against Mauritania ended in a close victory thanks to a penalty kick scored by Bertrand Traore in the 96th minute.
After Nouh Mohamed El Abd fouled Issa Kabore in the penalty area, substitute Traore sent Mauritania goalkeeper Babacar Niasse reeling.
Just minutes separated Mauritania from only its third-ever point at the Afcon.
It appeared as though Burkina Faso would lose their initial game, joining the likes of Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Algeria as favorites.
Despite not playing at their best in Bouake, Burkina Faso has advanced to the semi-finals in three of the previous five Afcons.
