The Algerian national football team faced Burundi in the second round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on September 29, 2026, in Bujumbura. The match took place under challenging conditions, with high temperatures and humidity, and on an artificial turf pitch. Burundi started strong, earning a corner kick just 15 seconds into the game.
The match got off to a disastrous start for Algeria, with defender Farès Chaïbi scoring an own goal in the 5th minute, putting Burundi up 1-0. Burundi extended their lead in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Algeria to score their second goal. Algeria struggled to find their footing, but eventually, they managed to create their first scoring opportunity in the 23rd minute through a shot by Mohamed Belkheir Boulbina that went wide of the post.
Algeria finally found the back of the net in the 29th minute when Boulbina's teammate, Mohamed Belkheir, scored his first goal for the national team, reducing the deficit to 2-1. This goal seemed to spark a turnaround for Algeria, as they began to regain control of the game and create more scoring chances. However, their defensive vulnerabilities persisted, and Burundi continued to pose a threat through swift counterattacks.
The second half of the match saw Algeria make an early substitution, with Adam Zorgane replacing injured midfielder Hichem Abdelli. Despite Algeria's efforts to mount a comeback, Burundi continued to threaten on the counter. However, Algeria managed to level the score in the 62nd minute when Boulbina executed a free kick from 20 meters, beating the Burundian goalkeeper.
Following the equalizing goal, Algeria's coach, Ibrahim Hamdani, made several substitutions, introducing players like Amoura, Bakkrar, Ouchiche, and Qebal to freshen up the team. These changes seemed to reinvigorate the Algerian side, but they were unable to find a winning goal. Burundi, on the other hand, continued to look for a winner but ultimately had to settle for a draw.
The 2-2 draw marked a mixed result for Algeria in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier campaign. Despite the challenges posed by the match conditions and Burundi's strong performance, Algeria showed resilience in coming back from a two-goal deficit. The team's ability to adapt and respond to setbacks will be crucial in their future matches.
The draw brings Algeria and Burundi a point each in Group C of the qualifiers. Algeria's next match will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team's performance against Burundi has provided valuable insights into areas that need improvement as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
Key points
- Algeria drew 2-2 with Burundi in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
- Boulbina scored a stunning free kick to equalize for Algeria.
- The match was marked by challenging conditions, including high temperatures and an artificial turf pitch.
