Algeria and Burkina Faso are set to face off in a highly anticipated group stage match at the Africa Cup of Nations. Both teams will be eager to secure their first win in the tournament and climb up the Group D standings.
Match Preview:
Algeria, the reigning champions, were unable to hold on to their first-half lead against Angola in their opening match, settling for a 1-1 draw.
Despite dominating early on and having a goal disallowed for offside, Algeria’s performance waned in the second half.
They now face a challenging encounter against Burkina Faso, a team that could pose more problems than their previous opponents.
Burkina Faso, on the other hand, secured a late victory in their first game against Mauritania. However, their overall performance was lackluster, struggling to cope with their opponents’ intensity.
They will need to improve significantly to compete against Algeria.
Team News:
Algeria’s attacking prowess will rely on Riyad Mahrez, who aims to make a bigger impact in this game after a relatively quiet performance against Angola.
Youcef Belaili’s directness and aggressive style of play could also trouble Burkina Faso’s defense. Coach Djamel Belmadi is expected to field a similar lineup to their first game, as no injuries have been reported.
For Burkina Faso, coach Hubert Velud must decide whether to start Bertrand Traore or bring him off the bench as he did in their previous match.
The fitness of Dango Ouattara, who sustained injuries in the last game, remains uncertain. Defensively, Edmond Tapsoba’s solid performance in the first game makes him a key player against Algeria.
Possible Lineups:
Algeria: (4-1-4-1)
Mandrea;
Atal, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait Nouri;
Bentaleb;
Belaili, Bennacer, Chaibi, Mahrez;
Bounedjah
Burkina Faso: (4-2-3-1)
Koffi;
Kabore, Dayo, Tapsoba, Yago;
Guira, Toure;
Traore, Ki, Badolo;
Konate
Prediction: Algeria 2-1 Burkina Faso
We predict a closely contested match with Algeria ultimately emerging as the winners. After their disappointing tournament opener, Algeria is expected to bounce back and extend their undefeated run against Burkina Faso to four games.
