Traore's late stunner gives Burkina Faso third place as Ghana disappoint

ruth

February 4, 2017 8:55 PM

Burkina Faso clinched the bronze medal at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Ghana 1-0 at the Stade de Port-Gentil.

Alain Traores excellent late free kick gave Burkina Faso a 1-0 victory over Ghana in the Africa Cup of Nations third place playoff.

Ghana were looking to overcome the disappointment of another tournament that almost delivered glory, and as the half progressed, they had good chances through Jordan Ayew and Tekpetey.

The Black Stars nearly broke the deadlock on 25 minutes but Bernard Tekpetey struck the crossbar from close range.

The Stallions struggled to get going, but had their first real opening after 41 minutes when Nakoulma fired wide of the upright from inside the box.

In the second half, Ghana continued to add on pressure and go close with Tekpetey and Jordan Ayew, but Burkino Faso clung on in defence, riding their luck but occasionally threating on the break.

Avram Grant had seen enough and introduced Asamoah Gyan and Andre Ayew after 65 minutes.

The Stallions saw more of the ball after 70 minutes with Alain Traore smashing a volley over the bar from 20-yards out.

With the game looking set for extra time, Traore rifled a curling free kick from a tight angle into the top corner to give his side a dramatic, impressive win.

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ruth