While a draw was enough to pass, Algeria lost against Mauritania (0-1) and missed its qualification for the 8th of the CAN.
For the second time in a row, Algeria failed to qualify for the round of 16 of the CAN. As in Cameroon two years ago, the Greens were out on the 1er round with zero victories on their record. After two initial draws, this Tuesday they experienced the humiliation of a defeat against Mauritania.
Algeria below everything
A draw was enough for the Fennecs to see the round of 16. But that was too much to ask of them. Once again, they dominated sterilely throughout the match to finally suffer the result which knocked them out of the tournament. On one of the rare free kicks conceded, they took a goal from Mohamed Dellahi (42e).
This time, Baghdad Bounedjah could not save the day for the Algerians. During the second half, only Aissa Mandi found himself in a scoring position. But, both times, he came up against the excellent Mauritanian goalkeeper.
Poorly coordinated and also feverish behind, the Algerians also came close to a big rout. Anthony Mandrea had to deploy on numerous occasions to avoid an even heavier defeat.
The bankruptcy of Belmadi
The incorporations of Mahrez, Belaili and Slimani during the second act did not change the situation. Algeria remained silent ahead. Until the end, she continued in her wanderings, to the great dismay of her supporters.
With this rout, the Belmadi era comes to an end. The latter won the African title in 2019 but it is now difficult to see him remaining at the head of this selection after three consecutive failures. For Mauritania, on the other hand, it is a historic feat. Especially since they have never won so far against their prestigious neighbor.
