AFCON 2023: Fans React to Bounedjah Brace in Algeria’s Thrilling 2–2 Draw With Burkina Faso

• Bahghad Bounedjah scored a brace for Algeria to rescue them against Burkina Faso
• Bounedjah is now joint-top scorer in the AFCON 2023 tournament with three goals
• Fans reacted to the thrilling game, some describing Bounedjah as the ‘African Diego Costa’

Baghdad Bounedjah emerged as the savior for Algeria in an exhilarating 2-2 draw against Burkina Faso during their Group D clash at the Africa Cup of Nations, on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

The nail-biting encounter unfolded at the Stade de la Paix in Ivory Coast.

Mohamed Konate secured the lead for Burkina Faso just before halftime, but Bounedjah swiftly equalized five minutes into the second half.

Bertrand Traore thought he had sealed the victory for Burkina Faso with a 71st-minute penalty, only for Bounedjah to level the score deep into injury time.

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In their previous game, Algeria had drawn with Angola, while Burkina Faso, semifinalists in the previous edition, secured a win against Mauritania in their opening fixture.

With two points from the draws, Algeria aims to advance by securing a victory against Mauritania on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.

Here are some reactions captured online after the draw:

Bounedjah's late goal played a crucial role in avoiding a scenario reminiscent of two years ago when Algeria, the reigning African champions, were eliminated in the group stage with just one point and one goal scored.

Despite the challenging mid-afternoon heat, Riyad Mahrez and his teammates faced a tough battle. Burkina Faso, led by French coach Hubert Velud, took the lead just before halftime through Konate's header, confirmed by VAR after an offside check.

Algeria responded six minutes into the second half when Bounedjah found the net amidst a goalmouth scramble. However, Burkina Faso was awarded a penalty in the second half following a VAR review, with Aston Villa forward Traore converting it.

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In a strategic move, Algeria withdrew Mahrez and Belaili before Bounedjah's 95th-minute header rescued them from the brink of defeat. The draw keeps the group finely poised as both teams vie for a spot in the last 16.

Algeria held by Angola in AFCON 2023 opener

Sports Brief on January 15, 2024, reported when Algeria were held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in their opening AFCON game.

A second-half Mabululu penalty denied the 2019 champions a winning start after Bounedjah gave Algeria the lead after 18 minutes.

The striker then had a stunning second goal ruled out for offside..