Madagascar’s Marco Ilaimaharitra scored a spectacular second half freekick to secure a 1-0 win over Burundi in their second Group B encounter in Alexandria on Thursday.

Madagascar dominated possession in the first half with Fanava Imá Andriatsima at the center of attack for the Barea.

Burundi sat back and relied upon Saido Berahino to lead the counter attack but it was not effective just like when they played Nigeria.

In the second half, the Swallows were much more advantageous and attacked the Madagascar defense.

Burundi were looking more dangerous with Fiston Abdoul-Razack and Cedric Amissi coming close just after the hour mark.

The game was heading for the first goalless draw but Madagascar broke the deadlock against the run of play, Marco Ilaimaharitra scoring from a freekick on the edge of the box.

Madagascar hold on to secure 3 points and edge closer to the last 16 while Burundi are eliminated from the competition with 2 defeats.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer