Algeria out in quarter-finals: Ramy Bensebaini exits Africa Cup of Nations | OneFootball

The dream of winning the Africa Cup has ended in the quarterfinals for Ramy Bensebaini and the Algerian national team. On Saturday, the Desert Foxes lost 0-2 to fellow favorites Nigeria and thus have to return home earlier than hoped.

In Marrakesh, Algeria and Nigeria—the only two teams to have won all their matches in the previous rounds—faced each other. However, it was not a duel on equal footing. The Algerian side could not find a way against the strong Super Eagles, who immediately took command and at times exerted enormous pressure.

Bensebaini saves twice in dire straits

Bensebaini, who once again formed the familiar and highly experienced central defense with Aissa Mandi, was kept busy right from the start and had to make two goal-line clearances in the first half. Only thanks to him did the teams go into halftime with a goalless draw. But immediately after the restart, even Bensebaini could not prevent Nigerian star striker Victor Osimhen from escaping the Borussia Dortmund defender and heading in the well-deserved opening goal. When Akor Adams made it 2-0 in the 57th minute, the match was practically decided.

Algeria did try to respond, but ultimately was unable to do so and only managed a few minor chances in the closing stages, none of which were compelling or converted.

It is still unclear when Bensebaini will return to Dortmund. However, it seems unlikely that he will feature in BVB’s home game against Werder Bremen on Tuesday.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.