January 16, (THEWILL) – Algeria obtained their 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) marketing campaign off to a shaky begin on Monday, as they had been held to a 1-1 draw by Angola. The Desert Foxes took an early lead by way of Baghdad Bounedjah however conceded within the second half as Mabululu transformed a penalty.
The match was meant to suggest Algeria’s willpower to make amends for his or her shock early exit as holders in 2022. When Bounedjah clinically completed a ball excessive within the 18th minute, it appeared the 2019 champions had been on their approach. Nonetheless, the Algerians did not take full benefit of their dominance, with a spectacular Bounedjah overhead kick dominated out for offside.
As the sport wore on, Angola grew in confidence and ultimately discovered an equaliser. Mabululu, who performs his membership soccer in South Africa, gained and transformed a penalty within the sixty fifth minute after Nabil Bentaleb fouled him within the field. His preliminary spot kick hit the bar however he bundled residence the rebound.
Attempt as they may within the closing levels, Algeria couldn’t break down Angola once more regardless of battering them with late set items. Captain Riyad Mahrez was a relentless menace from lifeless ball conditions however the minnows held on for a well-known level.
After 4 straight goalless attracts coming into AFCON 2024, this represents a superb outcome for Angola. However for Algeria, who suffered a humiliating group stage exit in 2022, this draw solely raises additional questions on their skill to elevate the continental trophy once more.