Former West Bromwich striker Saido Berahino scored late to hand visiting Burundi a 1-1 draw against hosts, Mauritania, at Sheikha Bo Idiya Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The result saw Mauritania temporarily go top of Group E of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with five points from three games.
The hosts seemed destined for a win after Bakary Ndiaye had scored in the 30th minute.
However, the Belgium-based Berahino replied late in with 10 minutes to full-time to silence the home crowd.
Mauritius lead the standings with one point ahead of Morocco who face Central Africa Republic later this week.
The hosts’ coach Juan Micha was without captain Emilio Nsue Lopez due to Covid-19 restrictions, Felipe Ovono (injury) and Jesus Nchama due to logistical issues.
On the other hand, Burundi has most of their players, including Berahino and Abdul Razak who led the attack.
Before the match, Micha bemoaned the absence of the captain saying it would affect his charges.
The return match will take place in Bujumbura on Sunday. Burundi now anchor the table with one point.
Starting line-ups:
Mauritania: Namouri Diaw, Moustapha Diaw, Bakary N’Diaye, Abdoul Ba, Aley Abeid, Alassane Diop, Mahmoud, El Hacen, Ismael Diakite, Bessam
Burundi: Onesime Rukundo, Phillip Nyeyimana, Frederic Nsabiyumva, Ndayizeye, Marco Weymans, Gael Bigirimana, Youssuf Ndayishimiye, Cedric Amissi, Abdul Razak, Berahino, Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana