AFCON 2023: Algeria held to second draw by Burkina Faso

Baghdad Bounedjah scored twice to keep Algeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations hopes alive as they drew against Burkino Faso in Group D.

Mohamed Konate’s powerful header had put the Stallions ahead before Bounedjah equalised in the 51st minute, scoring from close range.

Bertrand Traore’s penalty put Burkino Faso back in front 20 minutes later.

But Bounedjah rose highest to head in Algeria’s second equaliser in added time to pick up a point.

The Stallions had the better chances with Steeve Yago backheeling into the path of Blati Toure, whose shot flew just over the bar.

Rayan Ait-Nouri gave away the penalty after fouling Issa Kabore in the box and Traore stepped up to convert his second goal in as many games.

Bounedjah made up for shooting wide of the post in the first half by scoring twice in the second period. He reacted quickest in the box when Nabil Bentaleb’s effort was saved and then rose highest to gain a vital point for The Greens.

Group D is now finely poised, with Burkina Faso top on four points.

Algeria are second with two points from two games, while Angola would go joint top if they beat Mauritania.

BBC