Algeria advanced to the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Rabat. Captain Riyad Mahrez scored the decisive penalty in the first half, securing two wins from two in Group E. Burkina Faso, despite a strong response, could not find an equalizer and now face a crucial match against Sudan.
Algeria edged out Burkina Faso 1-0 in a low-key encounter at the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday in Rabat, ensuring their progression from Group E. The match, played at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah, saw Vladimir Petkovic's side maintain their perfect record after a 3-0 opening win over Sudan.
The game started cautiously, with Algeria shading the early exchanges. Burkina Faso's Gustavo Sangare was shown a yellow card for a wild tackle around the 20-minute mark. Referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea reviewed the incident via VAR but opted only for a caution, sparing Sangare a red card.
Algeria took the lead in the 23rd minute when Ismahila Ouedraogo fouled Rayan Ait-Nouri in the penalty area. Mahrez stepped up and calmly slotted the spot-kick into the bottom left corner, beating goalkeeper Herve Koffi.
Burkina Faso responded positively. Pierre Kabore nearly leveled in the 28th minute with a shot that flashed inches wide. Later, at the 43rd minute, Kabore headed against the post, and Bertrand Traore's follow-up was blocked by the Algeria defense.
Algeria ended the first half strongly, but Koffi made a brilliant save to deny Mohamed Amoura a second goal.
In the second half, Koffi again shone, saving from Ibrahim Maza midway through the period as Algeria increased the pressure. Hicham Boudaoui missed a headed chance, heading wide when well-positioned, and Koffi stopped Rayan Ait-Nouri's effort.
Burkina Faso's Lassina Traore came closest to an equalizer with a towering header straight at Luca Zidane late on. Algeria held firm to close out the victory without further incident, setting up a final group game against Equatorial Guinea.
Burkina Faso, who beat Equatorial Guinea 2-1 in their opener, will need a win over Sudan on Wednesday to keep their knockout hopes alive.
