CHAN 2023: Algeria Becomes First Nation To Reach Quarter-Finals

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Algeria became the first nation to reach the quart-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), after registering its second win of the competition with a hard fought 1-0 victory against over Ethiopia, at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers, Algeria.

While Algeria had most of the possession in the opening minutes, they could not do much to hurt Ethiopia, who did well to keep them at bay and away from the dangerous positions. As a result, the hosts were forced to ask questions of the keeper from a distance.

The first attempt came from Algeria’s Ahmed Kendouci, who fired from a distance but found an equally alert Farid Chaal, who did well to make the save in the 21st minute.

In the second half, Algeria continued where they left off with their high pressing game and eventually broke the deadlock.

After a well taken corner was flicked by Chouhaib Keddad, the ball fell to Aimen Mahious, who did well to control the ball and fire home in the 52nd minute.

Algeria’s Aimen Mahious celebrates goal against Ethiopia with teammates.

Mahious almost doubled his tally in the 67th minute after connecting with a brilliant cross from Zineddine Belaid, but saw his effort go agonisingly wide off goal.

However, the solitary strike by Mahious was enough to see the hosts march on in the competition and effectively book a place in the knockout stages.

Algeria will wrap up their Group matches with a tie against a high in confidence Mozambique side who overcame Libya in the earlier fixture.

For Ethiopia, they will look to win in the final group match against a wounded Libya side who sit at the bottom of the group.

Tuesday’s CHAN results

Mozambique 3-2 Libya

Algeria 1-0 Ethiopia.

 

CAF/Chidi Nwoke.