Mahrez Penalty Sends Algeria Through In Group E

Algeria took a major step towards qualification from Africa Cup of Nations Group E after grinding out a narrow 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso at Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan on Sunday night.

The Desert Foxes started with purpose and were rewarded midway through the first half when Rayan Ait Nouri drove into the penalty area and was brought down under pressure. Captain Riyad Mahrez stepped up in the 23rd minute and calmly dispatched the spot kick into the bottom corner, giving Algeria a lead they would protect with authority.

Burkina Faso responded positively and created several dangerous moments, particularly from set pieces. Pierre Landry Kabore struck the post with a powerful header before Edmond Tapsoba and Dango Ouattara both went close, but Luca Zidane produced key saves to keep Algeria in front.

Algeria remained compact and disciplined, relying on their defensive structure rather than sustained attacking pressure. Ibrahim Maza and Mohamed Amoura threatened on the break, while Mahrez continued to dictate tempo until his withdrawal just after the hour mark.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Burkina Faso enjoying spells of possession but struggling to convert pressure into clear chances. Lassina Traore and Cyriaque Irie both tested Zidane late on, while Tapsoba fired narrowly wide from distance as the Stallions searched desperately for an equaliser.

Despite a series of late corners and four minutes of added time, Algeria held firm, showing composure and game management to see out the result. The clean sheet underlined their defensive strength, with Aissa Mandi and Ramy Bensebaini anchoring the back line effectively.

The win places Algeria in a strong position in Group E heading into the final round, while Burkina Faso are left with little margin for error. Mahrez penalty once again proved decisive, highlighting the importance of experience and efficiency at this stage of the tournament.