At least one North African team will participate in the upcoming World Cup in Brazil as Algeria secured qualification on Tuesday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Blida. The match proved challenging for Vahid Halilhodzic’s team, who managed to hold their ground for the full 90 minutes.
Despite making several changes to the starting eleven, Algeria’s performance on the field was not entirely reassuring. Goalkeeper Zemmamouche, replacing Mbolhi, had some shaky moments, and the Fennecs’ defense faced moments of panic. Burkina Faso, too, struggled with skill, resulting in a first half marked by technical errors from both sides, leading to a 0-0 score at halftime.
A hero for the people, Bougherra, made a significant impact. After halftime, the Fennecs aggressively attacked the Burkinabé defense, earning a dangerous free kick from around thirty meters away. The ball entered the box, and Bougherra surprised Diakité, though his shot did not cross the line.
Following this, Bakary Koné attempted to clear but inadvertently directed the ball into the head of his teammate Steeve Yago, causing the stadium to erupt in celebration. The Fennecs had secured their place in Brazil. The intensity of the game waned afterward, with the introduction of the Traoré brothers (Alain and Bertrand) and Bancé proving ineffective.
Algeria’s qualification calls for celebration, and the country can now revel in the anticipated festivities in the streets.
