A 0-0 draw against Burkina Faso did not prove to be enough for holders Zambia to reach the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations this evening.
In what was an opening half of very few clear goalscoring chances, the best one fell to Zambia with 16 minutes played. Collins Mbesuma found himself with time and space inside the area, but he shot straight at Daouda Diakite in the Burkina Faso goal.
Mbesuma had another opportunity shortly after the restart, but headed the ball over the target from close range following a quick corner.
Having learned that Nigeria had taken the lead in the other match in this group, Zambia poured forward as the encounter drew to a close in attempt to salvage their spot in the competition.
However, the Faso rearguard held firm to ensure that they progress through as group winners at the expense of their opponents.
Liam Apicella
