Steven Caulker’s influence at the back helped less fancied Sierra Leone hold Algeria to a draw
By Kehinde Okeowo
Defending champions Algeria were held to a surprise goalless draw by less fancied Sierra Leone, as they made a disappointing start to the defence of their title in Douala, Cameroon.
The Holders were expected to get their campaign off to a winning start against Sierra Leone, but the stubborn and spirited West African side who were returning to the tournament for the first time since 1996 held firm to earn a draw.
The Leone Stars had the better exchanges in first-half and could have gone ahead, but Alhaji Kamara sent two opportunities narrowly wide.
In the second half, Algeria forward Yacine Brahimi had his effort saved by keeper Mohamed Nbalie Kamara, who also tipped a low drive from Man City’s Riyad Mahrez past the post.
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The goalkeeper went on to put up other great saves in stoppage time to deny Ramy Bensebaini and Baghdad Bounedjah goal scoring opportunities.
Former England defender Steven Caulker, who switched international allegiance and now dons Sierra Leone’s shirt, also made two crucial blocks to help his side earn the precious 1 point.
The draw saw the Desert Foxes extend their unbeaten run to 35 senior internationals, but coach Djamel Belmadi will be frustrated his array of stars failed to break the resolve of the well drilled backline of the Leone Stars.
Algeria continually carved out opportunities in the second half against the 108th ranked side but were let down by poor marksmanship – with substitute Said Benrahma missing an opportunity to win the game with five minutes remaining.
Algeria face Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 16, 2022, while Sierra Leone take on Ivory Coast on the same day.
Other AFCON results
GROUP D
Nigeria 1 vs Egypt 0
Sudan 0 vs Guinea-Bissau 0
