They needed a late winner on a defensive mistake and a big save by Boubacar Barry in stoppage time, but Ivory Coast will take their three points against Togo.
Youssef Mskani sinks Algeria
Ian WaltonBoth sides had plenty of chances in the match, though neither had the quality to finish them. Islam Slimani had the best chance for the Algerians, hitting the bar early in the first half with a header from just inside the penalty area. Sofiane Feghouli was far and away their most effective player, as expected, but couldn’t combine with any of his teammates for a goal.
Tunisia’s hopes of finding a goal were dealt a blow in the first half when Issam Jemaa was forced out with an injury after just 16 minutes, but 22-year-old Mskani came up huge in stoppage time with a brilliant 25-yard curled effort that was virtually unstoppable.
Read Article >Les Elephants hold onto win
Richard HeathcoteBad set piece marking was also a feature of the winner, punched in by Gervinho in the 88th minute. He got free at the far post and Togo goalkeeper Kossi Agassa got caught way out of position, gifting him a free tap-in on a cross by Yaya Toure.
Barry came up with a huge reaction save from close range in the final minute of stoppage time, preserving his team’s win.
Read Article >Group D in ACN action Tuesday
Stuart FranklinSchedule
Ivory Coast vs. Togo - 4 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Tunisia vs. Algeria - 7 p.m. local, 1 p.m. ET
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