Early goal wins AFCON for Algeria

ALGERIA

Bounedjah 2

Algeria won the Africa Cup of Nations for only the second time after an early goal from Baghdad Bounedjah proved decisive against Senegal in last night’s final in Cairo.

In an underwhelming match, Bounedjah’s second-minute shot took a major deflection off Salif Sane and spun up and over goalkeeper Alfred Gomis.

Senegal, aiming to win the competition for the first time, had the bulk of the possession and thought they had an opportunity to draw level in the second half when they were awarded a penalty for handball, but, following a VAR review, the decision was overturned.

Algeria, who had former Hearts goalkeeper Rais M’bohli between the sticks, saw the game out to claim the trophy for the first time since 1990, when they won it as hosts.