Algeria delivered a commanding performance to secure a comfortable 3–0 win over Sudan, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament’s strongest sides. The Desert Foxes dominated possession, created numerous chances, and capitalized on Sudan’s defensive lapses, especially after the visitors were reduced to ten men late in the first half.
First Half: Early Breakthrough and Red Card Drama
Algeria wasted no time asserting their authority. Just two minutes in, captain Riyad Mahrez opened the scoring with a composed left-footed finish into the bottom corner after a well-timed assist from Hicham Boudaoui, giving the hosts an early advantage.
Sudan attempted to respond through counter-attacks, with Yaser Awad and Abdel Raouf testing Algeria’s defense, but goalkeeper Luca Zidane remained alert when called upon.
The turning point came in the 39th minute, when Sudan’s Salah Adil received a second yellow card for a reckless foul on Rayan Aït-Nouri, leaving Sudan a man down. Despite a few late efforts from Sudan, Algeria went into the break leading 1–0 and firmly in control.
Second Half: Algeria Turn the Screw
With numerical superiority, Algeria increased the tempo after the restart. The pressure finally paid off in the 61st minute, when Mahrez struck again—this time converting from close range after a clever assist by Mohammed Amoura to make it 2–0.
Sudan struggled to cope with Algeria’s fluid attacking movement, while goalkeeper Monged El Neel was kept busy, making several important saves to prevent a heavier defeat.
Algeria sealed the result in the 85th minute. Substitute Ibrahim Maza finished confidently into the bottom left corner after a headed pass from Baghdad Bounedjah, capping off a polished team move and making it 3–0.
Late Stages and Final Whistle
The final minutes saw Algeria continue to probe, with Adil Boulbina and Hicham Boudaoui both denied by saves and blocks. Sudan showed resilience but lacked the firepower to threaten a comeback.
After five minutes of added time, the referee brought proceedings to an end, confirming a deserved 3–0 victory for Algeria.
Key Takeaways
Riyad Mahrez starred with two goals and constant creativity
Sudan’s red card proved decisive
Algeria dominated possession, chances, and discipline
Ibrahim Maza’s goal capped a strong performance off the bench
Algeria march on with confidence, while Sudan will need to regroup quickly ahead of their next AFCON fixture.
