Riyad Mahrez scored twice as Algeria began their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over a 10-man Sudan in their opening Group E match in Rabat.
The Desert Warriors struck almost immediately, with the former Manchester City winger finishing off a clever backheel from Hicham Boudaoui inside the second minute. Algeria controlled the tempo throughout, adding two more goals including a second from Mahrez as Sudan struggled after having a player sent off.
Burkina Faso Snatch Dramatic Late Win Over Equatorial Guinea
Earlier on Wednesday, Burkina Faso scored twice in stoppage time to secure a stunning 2-1 comeback win against a 10-man Equatorial Guinea in their Group E encounter in Casablanca.
After a goalless first half dominated by Burkina Faso’s wing play, the Stallions fell behind before halftime. However, they turned the game around dramatically in added time, with Edmond Tapsoba heading in the late winner to complete a memorable turnaround.
Côte d’Ivoire Edge Past Mozambique Despite Wasteful Display
Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire labored to a narrow 1-0 win over Mozambique in their opening Group F match, with Amad Diallo’s second-half strike proving enough for the three points.
Despite creating numerous chances in rainy conditions, the Ivorians were repeatedly frustrated in front of goal until Diallo side-footed home in the 49th minute. Mozambique, still without a win in six AFCON appearances since 1986, offered stubborn resistance but could not find an equalizer.
Cameroon Edge Gabon in Tense Neighbourly Clash
In Wednesday’s late fixture, Cameroon secured a morale-boosting 1-0 win over neighbours Gabon thanks to an early goal from Karl Etta Eyong.
The Spanish-based forward found the net in the sixth minute, finishing from a Bryan Mbeumo assist, with the goal confirmed after a VAR review.
The Indomitable Lions held on to claim a valuable opening victory in what was a tightly contested derby.
