AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli will welcome Ismael Bennacer back to Milanello a lot sooner than he perhaps expected after Algeria’s early elimination from the African Cup of Nations.
Last night produced another shock in AFCON as the 2019 winners Algeria were dumped out of the tournament at the group stage as Mauritania claimed a famous first ever win with Yali Dellahi scoring the winning goal in the first half.
It is actually the second consecutive AFCON where Algeria have exited without making the knockout round, something which is likely to cause an inquest. They finish bottom of Group D while Mauritania will progress as one of the best third-placed sides.
Former champions Ghana were eliminated after results earlier on Tuesday, which was another shock, while Algeria had drawn their opening two group games which put the pressure on them heading into yesterday’s match.
They knew another draw at the Stade de la Paix would secure qualification as a point would put them among the four best-ranked third-placed teams, and yet they lost to a Mauritania side who are relative minnows.
The result means that Bennacer – whose injury is not believed to be a worry – will return home after one appearance in the competition and he could even be available for Saturday’s game, depending on his condition.
Thanks for being ass, Algeria NT.
Thank you to whomever Yali Dellahi is!
What a great news!
I’m sorry for him, he worked hard to get fit for it.
Very disappointing for him as a previous winner who was player of the tournament.
Its always good to see Milan players do well on the international stage.
Hopefully he can get over the disappointment and physical issues quickly