Algeria didn't win, but they're still alive and kicking at AFCON 2023. The Fennecs drew with Burkina Faso in Group D on Saturday, January 20.
Burkina Faso hold up in first half
Will Algeria relive the same AFCON 2021 scenario?In any case, the Fennecs are in trouble at this AFCON 2023.They were held to a draw by Burkina Faso (2-2) on Saturday, January 20, in the Pool D clash. Djamel Belmadi's men got off to a good start, however, and created the first chances of the game. Youssef Belaili tried his luck from deep on the left. His curling shot forced Koffi into a fine save. The Etalons' keeper made another fine save from Sofiane Feghouli's right-wing cross-shot, and Bounedjah picked up the ball but missed completely.
Burkina Faso opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time.Mohamed Konaté catapulted a header from a long-distance cross into the Fennecs' net. The goal was initially disallowed by the referee, but was later upheld by VAR. Burkina thus took the lead at the break.
Bounedja saves Algeria
With their backs against the wall, Algeria reacted immediately after the restart. Bagdad Bounedjah equalized for the Fennecs. After a Belaïli free-kick, the Algerian centre-forward pushed the ball away from Koffi from close range (49th). The Etalons resisted the Algerians' pressure. They even surprised Djamel Belmadi's men. They regained the lead from the penalty spot. Kaboré collapsed in the box after contact with Aït-Nouri. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review.
Captain Bertrand Traoré took it (71st). But Algeria had not said its last word. Pushing forward, they equalized in the final minutes. And it was Bounedjah again who saved his team with a magnificent header in added time. With two points, Algeria will now face Mauritania in the final round of matches.
📹 HIGHLIGHTS: 🇩🇿 2-2 🇧🇫
A one of a kind excitement resulted in two goals and one point for each team. 🤝#ALGBFA | #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 | @Football2Gether
— CAF (@CAF_Online) January 20, 2024
