Algeria booked their place in the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Rabat, sealing a second successive win in Group E.
Captain Riyad Mahrez scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the first half, calmly converting after Ismahila Ouedraogo was penalised for fouling Rayan Ait-Nouri inside the box.
Vladimir Petkovic’s side capitalised on the opportunity to take control of the contest, while Burkina Faso were left chasing the game.
The opening stages were cagey, with few clear chances, although Burkina Faso’s Gustavo Sangare was fortunate to escape with only a yellow card following a VAR review for a reckless challenge.
Burkina Faso responded positively after conceding, with Pierre Kabore firing narrowly wide before later striking the post with a header, while Bertrand Traore’s rebound was well blocked by the Algerian defence.
Algeria ended the first half on the front foot, forcing goalkeeper Herve Koffi into an excellent save to deny Mohamed Amoura.
The Burkina Faso shot-stopper continued to impress after the break, producing further saves to keep out Ibrahim Maza and Ait-Nouri as Algeria increased the tempo.
Despite sustained pressure, Algeria were unable to add to their lead, with Hicham Boudaoui heading wide from a promising position.
Burkina Faso pushed for a late equaliser, and Lassina Traore went closest with a powerful header straight at Luca Zidane, but Algeria held firm to secure the narrow win and confirm their progression to the knockout stage.
