Mauritania emerges victorious with a remarkable 1-0 score against Algeria, securing a momentous triumph that propels them to the next stage while simultaneously eliminating Algeria from the competition.

Mauritania’s defender #14 Dellah Yaly (R) celebrated his team’s historic first goal in the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 group D football match against Algeria at Stade de la Paix. The goal, scored by Mohamed Dellahi in the 37th minute, marked the first time Mauritania had ever taken the lead in an AFCON match.

The match took an unexpected turn as Mauritania continued to dominate. Fifty-seven minutes later, they secured their first-ever AFCON victory and qualified for the knockout stage for the first time. Despite finishing third in group D behind Angola and Burkina Faso, Mauritania’s triumph sent a devastated Algeria team packing.

Algeria started the game slowly but gradually improved throughout the first half. Just as they were building pressure, however, Mauritania struck. Dellahi fired home a half-cleared corner that was sent back into the box, leaving Algeria stunned.

At the start of the second half, Algeria’s coach Djamel Belmadji made a crucial decision, bringing back Riyad Mahrez and Nabil Bentaleb to strengthen his side. Although Algeria created more chances, it was Mauritania who came closest to scoring again. Ibnou Ba’s shot hit the bar from close range, leaving Algeria’s hopes shattered.

With their historic victory, an ecstatic Mauritania now move on to face Cape Verde in the last 16. The question on everyone’s mind is, can they continue their remarkable journey in the tournament? Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling AFCON campaign.