Algeria crowned AFCON champion after beating Senegal

Cairo (QNN)- Algeria was crowned Africa Cup of Nations champion for the second time in its history, edging past Senegal 1-0 thanks to Baghdad Bounedjah’s early deflected goal.

Baghdad Bounedjah’s shot took a huge deflection off Salif Sane and looped over goalkeeper Alfred Gomes.

The goal was timed at 79 seconds — the fastest in an African Cup final for at least 39 years — and delivered Algeria just a second African title and first since 1990.

Senegal, who have never won the competition, were awarded a penalty for handball in the second half but it was overturned after a VAR review.

Algeria closed out the rest of the game to win their first title since 1990.

Senegal and Sadio Mane trudged off the field at the 75,000-seat Cairo International Stadium disappointed again.

Senegal has never won the African Cup and has gone 15 tournaments without a title.

Algeria was a fitting winner in Egypt having won every game, including a 1-0 win over Senegal in the group stage.