June 04, (THEWILL) – Bonfils Caleb Bimenyimana, a Kazakhstan-based striker, scored a late goal but was sent off as Burundi held Namibia to a 1-1 draw in their first 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday.
In the Group C match, at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday, the Brave Warriors’ first-half lead was cancelled by a determined Burundi side with a last-minute goal at a game of two halves that saw the hosts controlling the first half and the visitors seizing control after the interval.
Peter Shalulile, the Brave Warriors’ top scorer and best player in the South African Premier League, was picked to lead the attack. He put Namibia ahead in the 10th minute with a beautiful strike that beat goalkeeper Jonathan Nahimana.
However, Bimenyimana’s late goal in the game was a deserving end for Burundi, who were the better team after play resumed for the second period. It was his first competitive goal and it rescued a point for the Swallows. But, he received a second yellow for removing his shirt while celebrating and was sent off.
Both countries will take a temporary lead in Group C with a point each, since favourites Cameroon were on standby and will face Burundi on matchday two later.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
