TEMPO.CO, Malabo - Algeria secured a place in the last eight at the African Nations Cup with a 2-0 victory over Senegal, eliminating their opponents during Tuesday’s Group C clash.
A fantastic late goal by Nabil Bentaleb ensured victory after an early goal from Riyad Mahrez gave way to the Algerians in eliminating the Senegals, who needed a draw to advance to the next round.
Algeria finished group phase by collecting six points, the same as group winners Ghana that secured a 2-1 win over South Africa in the other group game with a late goal in Mongomo.
On Sunday, Ghana will clash with the Group D runners-up in Mongomo, while Algeria will face Group D winners in Malabo.
Algeria started the game with Senegal under pressure, following their poor performance and defeat by Ghana on Friday. Nerves were displayed in their defense as the Senegalese tried to attack by relying on speed down the flanks in the early match.
However, the Algerians broke the deadlock when Mahrez received the ball from Madjid Bougherra and tamed goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul.
Senegal had few chances to equalize the position during the first half but failed to find the back of the net.
Sadio Mane’s pace and movements caused concern to Bougherra and his defensive partner Carl Medjani, while Papy Djilobodji nearly scored with a long-range free kick in the 30th minute. Mame Biram Diouf’s effort was then thwarted by Rais M'Bolhi six minutes later when he snatched the ball.
Algeria tried to secure a win in the second half and stoppages became increasingly frequent. M’Bolhi was given a yellow-card for time-wasting after 76 minutes, although Algeria nearly scored when Kara Mbodji was forced to do a goal-line block.
The defeat eliminated Senegal from the tournament following Ghana’s win in Mongomo after late goals from John Boye and Andre Ayew cancelled Mandla Masango’s opener and sent Avram Grant's squad to the quarterfinals.
ANTARA
