AFCON 2019: Riyad Mahrez on target as Algeria dim Harambee Stars in AFCON clash

- Algeria vs Kenya Group C clash finished 2-0 in favour of the Desert Foxes

- Riyad Mahrez and Baghdan Bounedjah scored a goal apiece to gift Algeria maximum points

Harambee Stars' hopes of springing a surprise in the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt were dashed on the evening of Sunday, June 24, after suffering a 2-0 defeat against Algeria in their Group C clash played at 30 June Stadium.

Stars, who were making a return to the competition after a 15-year absence, struggled through the match as they made glaring defensive errors.

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The Sebastien Migne-tutored side was subsequently punished in the 33rd minute after Dennis Odhiambo fouled Algeria's Youcef Atal in the dangerous area to concede a penalty.

Baghdad Bounedjah stepped up to take up the penalty, making no mistake as he slotted it home softly after sending goalkeeper Patrick Matasi the wrong way.

Kenya nearly restored parity five minutes later via Ayub Timbe Masika, but his right-footed shot from the left side of the box missed the target.

Cognizant of their opponent's threat, the Desert Foxes reiterated by sending the ball on attack, to double the lead through Riyad Mahrez just two minutes before the break.

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In the second half, Migne introduced Ouma Otieno in Francis Kahata's place, but the substitution failed to pay off as Algeria continued dominating proceedings.

Michael Olunga, however, twice came close to finding the back of the net, but Algeria's solid defense-line fended off the striker's advances.

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The Les Verts eventually held on to claim maximum points over Kenya to match Senegal's scoreline against Tanzania in Group C opener.

Stars will be seeking to redeem themselves against neighbours Taifa Stars of in their next group fixture to keep alive their chances of progressing to the next stage of the competition.

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