South Africa qualify for World Cup finals and progress to Afcon quarter-finals despite defeat to Burkina Faso

South Africa's U17 booked a place in the U17 World Cup despite registering a 2-0 defeat to Burkina Faso in their last group match at Laarbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, on Sunday.

Vela Kumalo's charges would have broken the deadlock in the 23rd minute after they were awarded a penalty following a foul on Emile Witbooi. However, Neo Bohloko failed to convert the spot kick.

Goalkeeper Lwandiso Radebe made critical saves to prevent Burkina Faso from scoring from the numerous chances created in the game.

Bohloko thought he had a chance to redeem himself when he was initially awarded a penalty in the 47th minute, but after a VAR assessment, the call was overturned as he was deemed to have taken a simulation.

Bara Jumior finally scored for Burkina Faso as he managed to slot past an otherwise impressive Radebe. They scored their second goal in the 88th minute through Ashsaraf Tapsoba.

Amajimbos sealed their place in the global showpiece thanks to Egypt's 2-1 win over Cameroon in the other Group B match.

Burkina Faso, who have not lost in the campaign so far, top the group with nine points; South Africa are second with four, while Egypt are third and Cameroon are at the bottom with just one point.

Although their main focus is on the quarter-final assignment, they should play the remaining games as preparation for the World Cup finals.