Angola put in a spirited performance as they managed to hold 2019 Africa Cup of Nations champions Algeria to a 1-1 draw in Group D of the 2023 edition in Bouake on Monday night.
The Black Antelopes were making a return to the continental contest after missing the 2021 edition and fell behind to the Algerians in the 18th minute when veteran forward Baghdad Bounedjah latched on to Youcef Belaili’s weighted pass and volleyed the ball into the top right corner of the net.
The Algerians held that lead until the 68th minute when Mabululu converted from the penalty spot after Lille midfielder Nabil Bentaleb brought down the Al Ittihad Alexandria forward in the box.
The Desert Foxes were close to finding a winner deep in added time but Riyad Mahrez’s free kick was saved by Angolan keeper Neblu.
Mabululu converts from the spot to keep the Angolan dream alive, as Algeria is held back from taking all 3points. Algeria???????? 1-1 Angola????????
#Afrosport #AFCON2023 #TotalEnergiesAFCON #Angola #Algeria pic.twitter.com/LrJ9w2atZx
— AfroSport (@AfroSportTV) January 15, 2024
Djamel Belmadi’s men will be seeking redemption when they face 2013 AFCON runners-up Burkina Faso in their next Group D game while Pedro Goncalves’ side will be targeting another spirited performance against Mauritania.
