Baghdad Bounedjah netted two goals to maintain Algeria’s aspirations for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, securing a draw against Burkina Faso in Group D.
Mohamed Konate’s commanding header initially gave the Stallions the lead before Bounedjah responded with an equalizer in the 51st minute, slotting home from close range.
Bertrand Traore then restored Burkina Faso’s advantage with a penalty 20 minutes later. However, Bounedjah’s towering header in added time secured Algeria’s second equalizer, earning them a valuable point.
The Stallions had several promising opportunities, including Steeve Yago’s backheel pass to Blati Toure, whose shot narrowly cleared the crossbar.
Rayan Ait-Nouri conceded the penalty by fouling Issa Kabore in the box, and Traore capitalized on the opportunity, converting his second goal in as many games.
Bounedjah redeemed himself after narrowly missing the target in the first half by netting twice in the second period. He displayed quick reactions in the box when Nabil Bentaleb’s shot was saved, and later rose highest to secure a crucial point for The Greens.
Group D is currently in a balanced state, with Burkina Faso leading on four points. Algeria follows in second place with two points from two games, and a potential win for Angola against Mauritania could see them join the top of the group.