Mauritania 1-0 Algeria: Les Fennecs crash out of tournament after shock defeat to underdogs

Algeria experienced a surprising elimination from the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a stunning 1-0 defeat against underdogs Mauritania. A goal scored by Mohamed Dellahi in the first half was sufficient to secure a historic triumph for the Lions of Chinguetti, propelling them to the knockout stages for the very first time in their existence.

Djamel Belmadi’s team, who required a victory to secure their place in the last 16, had numerous opportunities to score early on. Youcef Atal and Adam Ounas both had shots saved, but it was Houssem Aouar who had the best chance. Unfortunately, he failed to hit the target from close range, hitting the wrong side of the post.

On the other hand, Mauritania grew into the game and created chances of their own. Souleymane Anne forced a brilliant save from the opposition goalkeeper, Anthony Mandrea, before Dellahi scored a shock goal. Dellahi took advantage of Omare Gassama's blocked shot, calmly hooking the ball into the net from 10 yards out.

Before halftime, Hitcham Boudaoui missed two opportunities for Algeria, while Aboubakary Koita had a powerful shot saved. With a lead at halftime, Amir Abdou's team was on track for their first-ever AFCON victory.

They knew that a win would see them qualify as one of the best third-placed finishers in the tournament. On the other hand, Algeria was facing elimination and brought on Riyad Mahrez for the second half.

However, Algeria almost found themselves 2-0 down when Koita made a brilliant run past several defenders but failed to hit the target. Babacar Niasse made two outstanding saves to deny Boudaoui and Aïssa Mandi as Algeria pushed forward.

As Algeria continued to attack, they left space at the back, which Aboubakar Kamara and Ibnou Ba almost exploited. Kamara had a long-range shot saved, while Ba hit the woodwork from close range.

Despite these missed chances, Mauritania secured a fairytale victory, their first-ever against Algeria. This result means that Algeria fails to qualify for the knockout stages for the second consecutive tournament.