CAN 2027 qualifiers: Algeria fight back from two-goal deficit to draw with Burundi

Algeria recovered from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Burundi in an eventful Group I match in the second round of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.

Burundi took the lead after only five minutes when Fares Chaibi scored an own goal. J. Girumugisha then doubled their advantage in the 12th minute, putting Algeria under early pressure.

Despite controlling 71% of possession compared with Burundi’s 29%, Algeria struggled to turn that dominance into a result in the opening stages.

The Fennecs began their comeback before half-time when M. Belloumi pulled a goal back in the 30th minute.

Algeria completed the recovery after the break, with A. Boulbina converting a free-kick in the 63rd minute to make it 2-2.

The visitors continued to push for a winning goal, but Burundi held on through the remainder of normal time and four minutes of added time. The score remained unchanged at the final whistle.

The draw gives Algeria a valuable point from their trip to Bujumbura and increases the pressure on Togo, who face Zambia.