Algeria need miracle to make quarterfinals

Star-packed Algeria came to the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon as one of the favourites, but they need a miracle here on Monday to reach the quarterfinals. A team including African Footballer of the Year Riyad Mahrez must defeat Senegal, and hope Zimbabwe beat Tunisia in a simultaneous kick-off.

Star-packed Algeria came to the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon as one of the favourites, but they need a miracle here on Monday to reach the quarterfinals.

A team including African Footballer of the Year Riyad Mahrez must defeat Group B winners Senegal, and hope fellow strugglers Zimbabwe beat Tunisia in Libreville in a simultaneous kick-off.

Those results would see Algeria and Zimbabwe sharing second place with four points each, leaving goal difference, goals scored or the drawing of lots to separate the sides.

Judged by the four matches so far, victories for Algeria and Zimbabwe are unlikely as Senegal and Tunisia have been a lot more impressive.

Senegal are assured of finishing first and staying in the southeastern Gabonese city for a quarterfinal against the Group A runners-up.

Tunisia need only draw with Zimbabwe to seal second spot and secure a Libreville date with the Group A winners. Belgiumborn Algeria coach Georges Leekens accepts the former champions are facing a mammoth task. “Senegal play good football and, in an ideal world, we would have qualified before facing them,” he admitted.

“This is going to be a very tough match for us to win. We dare not give away soft goals like we did against Tunisia.”

Senegal coach Aliou Cisse says he will not rest his firstchoices. “We intend fielding our strongest side,” he said. “This fixture has the potential to be a thriller and all the players want to compete.”

A glance at the line-ups makes it clear why the game is so eagerly awaited.

The Senegal attack includes Liverpool star Sadio Mane and Keita Balde of Lazio.

Henri Saivet, a Newcastle United midfielder on loan to Saint-Etienne, is another Teranga Lion in form.