Aimen Mahious second half penalty was enough to give host nation Algeria an important 1-0 win over Libya in the opening game of the 2022 African Nations Championship at the Nelson Mandela Stadium.
The host nation begun on a blistering note and had their first shot at goal in just a minute from kickoff but no.14 had his strike gathered by goalkeeper
Algeria have been all over in the opening 10 minutes, having all attacks on their way whiles Libya looked completely off with no any attempt on goal.
The Libyans broke with their first attempt, Omar Alkhja made a great serging run on the left to launch a decent cross but the connection from Abdulati Alabasi landed at the roof of the post.
Aimen Mahious controlled from the left, dropped inside to sent a strong hit but went straight at goalkeeper Muad Allafi.
In the second half, the Desert Foxes took it from where they ended and with the all attack approach, doing all they could to snatch the lead.
Aimen Mahious finally wins Algeria a penalty on the 54th minute after he was brought down by goalkeeper Muad Allafi. The victim stepped up and with Jorginho-style, he scored beautifully to put the host in front.
Libya won't be discouraged by the unfortunate penalty conceded as they also threw more men forward in search for the equalizer, having attacked from the flanks with lots crosses but we're all checked.
The Reds constant attacks nearly fetched them the leveller on the 71st minute but Omar Alkhja had his strike tipped off by Alexis Guendouz to a wasted corner kick. Another chance fell on their path but skipper Ali Ramadhan Ali had his strike went off the upright.
It ended after full time. The next round of matches in Group A is scheduled for Saturday, January 21, 2022.
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