An excellent first half saw Algeria put to rest any doubts about the Fennec Foxes setting the African national team record for longest unbeaten streak as they defeated neighbors Tunisia 2-0 on Friday. Algeria’s unbeaten streak now stands at 27 games, surpassing the mark previously set by Ivory Coast.
The Algerian side improved from their prior friendly matches earlier this international break by asserting themselves from the start. After star creator Riyad Mahrez saw a right footed effort blocked in the first 15 minutes, the 19th minute brought the Fennecs their breakthrough. Center back Djameleddine Benlamri caught the Tunisian defense scrambling to get into position by chipping a pinpoint free kick in to find Youcef Belaïli, who nodded the ball over for Baghdad Bounedjah to hit a crisp volley past Carthage Eagles keeper Mouez Hassen.
Mahrez stepped up to put the match beyond doubt and give Algeria a two-goal lead ten minutes after Bounedjah’s opener. Sofiane Feghouli got behind the defense and was fouled on the edge of the box by Tunisian center back Dylan Bronn. Belaïli and Mahrez performed a two-man routine before Belaïli tapped the ball over to the side, giving Mahrez a better angle as he ran up and belted a shot by a screened Hassen.
Algeria will take on Burundi to wrap up their series of friendlies while Tunisia encounters Mali next. Video of the goals are below.
