Already qualified for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Algeria faced Gambia on Friday evening in their final Group D qualifier. The match, held at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, ended in a 1-1 draw, with the Scorpions securing a late equalizer against a Fennecs side missing several key players.
Gambia had arrived in Blida hoping for a historic upset that could have secured their first-ever AFCON appearance. To achieve this, they needed a victory and a favorable result in the other Group D match, specifically a draw between Benin and Togo on Sunday. Despite their elimination from the qualifiers and the slim odds, the Scorpions displayed patience and discipline throughout the match, aiming to capitalize on any opportunity presented against an Algerian side that remained focused despite off-field distractions.
The match began with Algeria taking control, even with a revamped lineup. Star players like Riyad Mahrez, Yacine Brahimi, Nabil Bentaleb, and Islam Slimani were all unavailable, giving other squad members the chance to step up. Mehdi Abeid, the Dijon midfielder, opened the scoring just before halftime, giving the Fennecs the lead and setting the tone for what seemed likely to be a routine victory.
However, Gambia refused to be outclassed. The Scorpions maintained composure, defending stoutly and waiting for their chance to strike. Their persistence paid off in stoppage time, when Danso found the back of the net to earn a well-deserved equalizer. The result allowed Gambia to finish the match with pride and demonstrate that, even eliminated, they could challenge one of Africa’s strongest sides.
For Algeria, the draw confirmed their position atop Group D, solidifying a successful qualification campaign despite a politically charged atmosphere at home. Calls for a boycott had circulated on social media, reflecting public concern over the country’s political situation. Ticket sales were low, but on the pitch, the Fennecs remained professional, ensuring that the campaign concluded on a positive note.
The draw also clarified the stakes for the other Group D contenders. Benin now only needs a draw at home against Togo on Sunday to secure the second qualifying spot alongside Algeria, while Togo must win to keep their hopes alive. Gambia’s elimination effectively simplified the qualification picture, leaving fans and teams to focus on the final matchday drama between Benin and Togo.
Overall, the encounter highlighted Algeria’s depth and professionalism, as well as Gambia’s resilience and fighting spirit. Even without their top stars, the Fennecs controlled the game for most of the 90 minutes, while the Scorpions showed they could compete with stronger sides when disciplined and patient. The 1-1 result provided a fitting conclusion for both teams in Group D, with Algeria celebrating their unbeaten qualification and Gambia leaving Blida with pride intact.
With the qualifiers concluded for both sides, attention now shifts to the final Group D match and preparations for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where Algeria will look to translate their strong qualifying form into success at the finals.
