The Black Stars of Ghana secured a vital 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso to clinch a quarter-final slot in Group B. A 30th minute header from Dede Ayew proved priceless as the Stars proved doubters and critics wrong and sent the Stallions of Burkina Faso packing out at the group stage. It was always going to be difficult for the Black Stars to sail through and the opening embers of the first half only served to underline the near impossibility of the task put on the shoulders of the relatively young and inexperienced Stars. The Burkinabes were tall and bulky and athletic and capitalised on their strength, leaving the Stars struggling for possession. Jonathan Pitroipa was easily the brightest spot and posed all sorts of problems for Samuel Inkoom with his surging runs and tricky footwork but failed to deliver the crucial pass for Dagano to finish. Charles Kabore and Mahamoudou Kere dictated the pace in midfield but did not pose any real threat at goal. The Stars slowly warmed themselves into the game with Kwadwo Asamoah and Dede Ayew showing up strongly. Totally against the run of play, Dede Ayew opened Ghana’s account in spectacular fashion when he powerfully connected a teasing cross from Samuel Inkoom in the 30th minute and directed his header close to the post on the right of the Burkinabe keeper. The tall Burkinabe defence was momentarily caught napping leaving Ayew unmarked and an opportunity to cause damage. The Stars had their confidence soaring after the goal and dictated the pace with some sweet passing football and flashes of individual brilliance from Kwadwo Asamoah.