Algeria booked their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
A 23rd-minute penalty from captain Riyad Mahrez proved decisive, further extending his tally as Algeria’s leading scorer at the tournament. Despite enjoying the majority of possession, the Desert Foxes found clear chances difficult to come by against a disciplined Burkina Faso defence.
Burkina Faso came close to drawing level just before the break when Pierre Kabore’s header struck the post, but Algeria held firm.
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane delivered a composed performance, making several key saves to protect Algeria’s narrow lead. Midfielder Ibrahim Maza was named TotalEnergies Man of the Match after an impressive all-round display.
The result leaves Algeria top of Group E with six points, while Burkina Faso remains on three. Algeria will face Equatorial Guinea in their final group game, as Burkina Faso prepares to take on Sudan.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Jones Adzi
