Manchester City at the Africa Cup of Nations: Part 4

On Sunday, Riyad Mahrez and Algeria faced Guinea in the Africa Cup of Nations’ Round of 16. The Manchester City man played the entire duration of the match, and captained his side in this fixture.

Algeria started well at the beginning of this match. Baghdad Bounedjah had a few opportunities to open the score, but he was unable to convert. His missed efforts would be atoned, however, as he provided the assist for the Desert Foxes’ opening goal. A clever back-heel pass saw Mohamed Youcef Belaili through on goal, where the latter beat Guinea’s goalkeeper from a tight angle. Guinea sought an immediate equaliser, but Algeria held their ground. By the end of the first half, the Desert Foxes held a narrow lead over the National Elephants.

At the restart, Guinea dictated the match and held the majority of possession. Despite Guinea’s efforts, however, Algeria scored against the run of play. At 57 minutes, captain Mahrez calmly collected the ball from a cross and slotted the ball home. Adam Ounas would add a third toward the end of the match, and by full time, Algeria achieved a well-earned victory over Guinea.

The result means the Desert Foxes will advance to the competition’s quarter-finals, where they will face either Mali or Ivory Coast.