Given that qualification position was on the line for these teams, the game began in a tense fashion, but Burkina Faso entered as favourites.
The deadlock was broken by The Stallions in the 16th minute by Lassina Traore, nodding in at the back post after an aggressive press high in Sudan’s half forced the opener.
After winning the ball back high, Stephane Aziz Ki’s shot-stroke-cross found its way to the back post, where Traore scored his 13th goal at international level.
Despite Brama Traore’s side’s dominance overall, a lapse of concentration quickly allowed John Mano to sneak between the defender and goalkeeper, with the latter bringing him down for a penalty.
However, Mano failed to convert and remains goalless at international level as a result. That did give the Falcons a boost, though, and they came close again to a leveller through Yasir Mozamil, who couldn’t find the target despite being less than a few yards from goal.
The second half was a quiet opening, but Sudan pushed harder for an equaliser. Aamir Abdallah went closest around 10 minutes after half-time, firing a few yards past the post after a smart move. Another chance came and went as Al Gozoli Nooh very nearly managed to squeeze a tight finish past Herve Koffi.
However, they were made to rue those missed opportunities as Burkina Faso killed the game off against the run of play, with a swift counter-attack led by Brentford forward Dango Ouattara.
His touch and dribble opened up some space, and Arsene Kouassi managed to apply the finish despite a deflection to secure victory and earn his side automatic qualification.
Victory for Burkina Faso ensures they qualify in second place behind Algeria and await a tie with the winners of Group F, which could be either one of Cameroon, Ivory Coast or Mozambique in the knockout round.
For Sudan, they have qualified as one of the best third-placed sides and will next face Senegal.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Arsene Kouassi (Burkina Faso)
