Esteban Becker hailed a brave display as hosts Equatorial Guinea held off Burkina Faso in the Africa Cup of Nations
Equatorial Guinea coach Esteban Becker hailed his team’s performance in the goalless Africa Cup of Nations draw with Burkina Faso.
As in their opening Group A game against Congo, the host nation produced a battling performance to earn a deserved share of the spoils.
Burkina Faso forward Alain Traore twice hit the post during the first half and the wastefulness in front of goal that was a central factor in their 2-0 loss to Gabon once again afflicted 2013 finalists.
Equatorial Guinea grew in confidence as the match went on, with attackers Emilio Nsue and Iban Edu to the fore.
I am very satisfied, very proud of my team, said Argentinian Becker, formerly the coach of Equatorial Guinea s women s team and the country s technical director, who was only appointed to his current post on January 7.
Burkina Faso is a very strong opponent, which has eight players in the French top-flight.
In the second half we were very brave. We also deserved to win.