Algeria has crashed out of the ongoing African Cup of Nations tournament in Gabon after they played a 2-2 draw with Senegal in the final group clash.
The African side failed to win a single game in the tournament despite being branded one of the favourites to lift the title.
Leicester City striker Islam Slimani scored both goals during the game against Senegal – another favourite to win the title. Senegal equalized on both occasions that Slimani scored. Papakouly Diop and Moussa Sow ensured both sides shared the spoils. Slimani scored in the first ten minutes but Senegal levelled before the break. After the break, Slimani added another in the 52nd minute but the Senegalese side responded immediately in the 53rd minute through Sow. Slimani could have won the game and grabbed his hat trick but he went the effort wide.
The draw would hurt the confidence in the team as they pack their bags until preparations for the World Cup qualifier. They were forced to a draw when they played Zimbabwe in their opener. Many expected the team to see off Zimbabwe easily but the shock was extended when Algeria lost to Tunisia. All hopes crashed as same Tunisia thrashed Zimbabwe comfortably 4-2 to book a spot in the last eight.
Senegal had already qualified so Coach Aliou Cisse made ten changes to the starting line up yet they forced Algeria to a draw. Cisse rested the top players as they want a strong side for their quarter final clash against Cameroon. The draw means they end the group unbeaten.
Algeria has more possession in the ratio 58:42 but they were not sharp in front of goal. Slimani and Riyad Mahrez would be expected to quickly rejoin their club in the Premier League as Leicester battle poor form despite being defending champions.