wobbling Algeria draw with Senegal, exit Afcon 2017

Star-studded Algeria could not force their way past a stubborn Senegalese side as they exited the African Nation’s Cup without a win following a 2-2 draw in their final group encounter.

Only a win, combined with other favourable results, would have helped the Fennec Foxes through, and just ten minutes in, they were a goal up: Sofiane Hanni broke free down the lefthand side, playing in a fine ball for Islam Slimani to finish off and give his side the lead.
Riyaad Mahrez was back to his usual self, pulling the strings in midfield, his two shots from range signalling his side’s intent.
Yet just two minutes before the break, Senegal drew themselves level, Papakouli Diop volleying home after a poor clearance by the Algerians.
The action came think and fast at the start of the second period, Slimani doubling his lead just seven minutes in after latching onto a Mahrez pass. Yet barely a minute later Senegal were back on level terms, Moussa Sow driving the ball home from the edge of the box to make it 2-2.
Slimani missed a glorious chance to seal his hat-trick later on in the half, shooting wide with just the keeper to beat, before Mahrez flashed over the top late-on in Algeria’s last attempt of the tournament.
The 2-2 scoreline means the much-fancied Fennec Foxes leave Gabon without a win, while Senegal top Group B and face-off against Cameroon in their quarter-final on Saturday.