Two-time tournament winners Algeria were knocked out of the Africa Cup without a trace after losing to Mauritania. Mauritania, on the other hand, celebrated a historic success and a place in the next round after fighting valiantly
Algeria went into the match against the underdogs from Mauritania, who had lost both of their previous group games, as clear favorites. The Algerians, with two draws in the tournament so far, were under pressure and needed a win to progress. Superstar Mahrez and Frankfurt’s Chaibi, among others, were initially on the bench. The underdogs, on the other hand, only had a chance of reaching the round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams in the group with a win.
In the first half, the favorites dominated the game and had the advantage on the pitch. However, really dangerous opportunities were few and far between. At least Bounedjah had a chance in front of the Mauritanian goal after a cross from Ounas, but missed narrowly (25′). Twelve minutes later, however, the North Africans were caught out cold: after a corner was initially defended, the ball came to Dellahi via a circuitous route and he was successful from just under seven meters. The lead for Mauritania – the first ever in their Africa Cup history
Algeria’s efforts remain unsuccessful
Algeria, for whom Mahrez was substituted after the break, continued to make an effort in the second half, dominated the game and had 75 percent possession after the break. However, there were no really dangerous opportunities. The best chance to equalize was missed in the 70th minute by defender Mandi, who was alone in front of goalkeeper Niasse after a free-kick from halfway, who was able to save from point-blank range.
In the 86th minute, the game was almost over for the Algerians when Ba volleyed a cross onto the crossbar. Despite eleven minutes of stoppage time, it was not enough for the “desert foxes” to score an equalizer: Mauritania, who fought valiantly, thus progressed as third in the group and created a minor sensation, while Algeria had to return home.
