The African team, Argentina’s rival in the upcoming World Cup, won 3-0 with two goals from Riyad Mahrez and one from Ibrahim Maza, starting the tournament with authority.
The Argentina National Team is already keeping an eye on one of its future rivals. In their debut in the African Cup of Nations, Algeria defeated Sudan 3-0 and left an impression of solidity and hierarchy that captures the attention of the coaching staff led by Lionel Scaloni.
The standout player of the match was Riyad Mahrezwho scored two goals and led the team throughout the game. The former Manchester City player made a difference with his individual talent and was key in unlocking a game that, once the score was opened, became favorable for the Desert Foxes. The third goal was scored by Ibrahim Mazasealing the victory.
Algeria’s win was convincing and without major scares. Sudan never managed to get into the game and also suffered the expulsion of Salaheldin Adilwhich tipped the balance further in favor of the Algerian team.
In the other match of Group E, Burkina Faso defeated Equatorial Guinea 2-1leaving Algeria as one of the early leaders of the group and confirming their candidacy to be a protagonist in the continental tournament.
For Argentina, the message is clear: Algeria is coming in at a good levelwith a decisive figure like Mahrez and a system that combines order and offensive efficiency. A strong rival that Scaloni and company will need to keep a close eye on.
