Algeria and Burkina Faso played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations clash.
The late heroics of Baghdad Bounedjah secured a crucial point for Algeria, preventing a repeat of their disappointing group stage exit from two years ago.
The scoring started with Mohamed Konate putting Burkina Faso ahead in stoppage time at the end of the first half, expertly heading home a cross from the left flank. A VAR check confirmed his onside position.
Algeria responded six minutes into the second half, as Bounedjah found the net from close range amid a goalmouth scramble.
However, Burkina Faso regained the lead through a Bertrand Traore penalty, awarded after a VAR review showed a foul by Rayan Ait-Nouri on Issa Kabore in the box.
With Burkina Faso seemingly on course for victory, Bounedjah emerged as the savior once again, heading home in the 95th minute to secure a 2-2 draw.
This late equalizer not only salvaged a point for Algeria but also elevated Bounedjah to the joint-top scorer of the tournament alongside Emilio Nsue of Equatorial Guinea, both with three goals.
Burkina Faso, with four points from two Group D games, is in a favorable position to advance to the knockout phase.
They face Angola next, while Algeria, with two points after being held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in their opener, needs a win against Mauritania to secure their passage.
Despite the challenges, the late goal by Bounedjah provides Algeria with renewed hope and sets the stage for a crucial final group match.
