Preview of AFCON 2023 Day 8: Algeria and Tunisia Face Off Against Emerging West African Teams Burkina Faso and Mali

The eighth day of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations promises exciting matchups, featuring North African teams facing off against talented West African counterparts. Burkina Faso seeks to secure a spot in the knockout stages as they take on formidable Algeria, aiming to bounce back from a disappointing draw with Angola in Group D. In another clash, Mali, buoyed by strong support, confronts Tunisia in a crucial Group E match following Tunisia's unexpected defeat to Namibia. Here's a closer look at these encounters and the battle between Angola and Mauritania, both eyeing crucial three points:

Two frontrunners from Group D, Algeria and Burkina Faso, kick off the action with a sense of familiarity. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying, both encounters between the two teams ended in draws, with Algeria narrowly securing a playoff spot. This encounter promises to be distinct, with conditions playing a significant role as Algeria seeks to overcome doubts stemming from their draw against Angola.

Algeria made a positive start in their opening match against Angola but couldn't capitalize on their dominance, concluding the game with disappointment. Coach Djamel Belmadi is expected to make adjustments based on the first match's performance and the anticipated hot conditions of afternoon play.

Algerian media suggests a potential change at the right-back position due to Youcef Atal's lack of match fitness. Atal, who faced exposure against Angola, was suspended for the last nine matches at OGC Nice due to controversial social media posts on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Kevin Guitoun, who substituted for Atal, may secure a starting role. The left flank is likely to feature Rayan Aït-Nouri, with Aïssa Mandi and Ramy Bensebaini in central defense in front of goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea.

The midfield, an area of underwhelming contribution in the previous match, may see changes. Hicham Boudaoui is promoted by supporters as a potential replacement for Nabil Bentaleb. Ismaël Bennacer and Farès Chaïbi are expected to maintain their positions due to their vital roles in the team. In the attacking lineup, Baghdad Bounedjah is likely to lead as the striker, supported by Youcef Belaïli on the left and superstar Riyad Mahrez on the right wing.

afconafcon 2024wolvesafrican cup of nationsafrica cup of nationsromaegypt fcafc asian cupsenegal vs camerooncameroon fccan 2024senegal fcnigeria fcmorocco vs tanzaniacameroonafcon resultsalgeria vs angolaalgeriaalgeria fccameroon vs guineamorocco fcmauritaniaafcon tableburkina fasoderby fc