The Desert Foxes of Algeria came from behind to earn a 2-1 win over visiting Niger in match day three of the 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifier, thanks to a late winner from Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez.
Rahim Alhassane and Mahrez ensured the host grab all three points at the Nelson Mandela stadium, despite Niger taking the lead few minutes after half the hour mark.
Daniel Sosah gave Niger a stunning lead against Algeria 39 minutes into the game, following an incredible lob against goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea.
Barely one minute into added on time before the break, two corner kick attempts from Riyad Mahrez were squandered by his team mates in the opponents box waiting to do the finishing but keeper Djibrilla Kassali denied their shots.
The 1-0 lead for the visitors, separated both sides for the short interval.
Not too long after the break, Delort smartly tried to finish Riyad Mahrez’s header to no avail. Rahim Alhassane put the ball past Djibrilla to level scores for their opponent at the back of their own net.
Riyad Mahrez netted two minutes to the end of regular time to end the host a comeback win.
Algeria came into this encounter with high hopes to continue their fine start to the AFCON qualifiers against a Niger side who were in search of a first victory.
And in the meantime, Niger aimed at putting an end to a 10-year wait for an appearance at the Continent’s biggest football showpiece.
Coach Belmadi’s side maintains their lead at the top of the table with now nine points, seven points away from second place Niger.
The reverse fixture comes up on Monday, March 27 at the Olympic stadium of Rades in Tunisia.
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