Mahrez penalty secures Algeria AFCON knockout berth

Algeria have sealed qualification for the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a game to spare after edging Burkina Faso 1-0 in their second Group E fixture in Rabat on Sunday.

Captain Riyad Mahrez was the difference, converting a first-half penalty to deliver a second straight win for the Desert Warriors and move them onto six points, confirming their place in the knockout phase alongside Egypt and Nigeria.

Early breakthrough proves decisive

The defining moment arrived in the 23rd minute when Algeria were awarded a penalty following a foul by Ismahila Ouedraogo inside the area.

Mahrez showed trademark composure from the spot, wrong-footing the goalkeeper to score his third goal of the tournament and maintain his position as AFCON’s leading scorer.

Algeria controlled large spells of the first half and looked capable of extending their lead, but Burkina Faso’s defensive structure limited clear chances before the interval.

Game management seals qualification

Vladimir Petkovic’s side remained on the front foot after the restart, creating openings but lacking the cutting edge to kill the contest.

Burkina Faso grew into the game, enjoying more possession as they chased an equaliser, yet struggled to break down a well-organised Algerian defence.

Experience ultimately told, as Algeria managed the closing stages efficiently to preserve their narrow advantage and secure progression.

The result leaves Algeria top of Group E with six points. Burkina Faso sit second on three points, level with Sudan, while Equatorial Guinea remain bottom without a point.

Algeria face Equatorial Guinea in their final group match on Wednesday, with Sudan and Burkina Faso meeting in a decisive encounter for the remaining knockout spot.