Algeria’s Slow Start: Draw with Angola in 2024 Africa Cup Opener.
Algeria, the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations champions, faced a stumbling start in the 2024 tournament as they were held to a draw by Angola.
Despite Baghdad Bounedjah putting Algeria in the lead in the first half, Mabululu’s penalty for Angola leveled the score in the second half.
The match marked the beginning of Group D, with Burkina Faso and Mauritania set to kick off their campaigns later.
Despite dominating possession and having numerous chances, Algeria couldn’t break through Angola’s defense. Bounedjah’s skillful finish gave them the lead, but missed opportunities haunted the team. A disallowed goal added to their frustration.
Former Tottenham midfielder Nabil Bentaleb’s foul in the penalty area paved the way for Mabululu to equalize with a powerful spot-kick, hitting the crossbar and crossing the line.
The draw adds Algeria to the list of strong teams, including Egypt, Ghana, and Cameroon, that have struggled in their opening matches.
This update on Algeria’s performance acknowledges the team’s past glory, emphasizes the challenges faced, and credits BBC as the source of information.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/67908913