Riyad Mahrez scored a decisive goal as Algeria demolished Liberia 5-1 in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, though both teams’ fates for next year’s tournament in Morocco were already determined.
The former Manchester City star, now 33 and playing for Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, headed home at the far post in the 29th minute to give Algeria a lead they would never relinquish. His goal came after veteran defender Aissa Mandi, 33, had canceled out Sampson Dweh’s surprise sixth-minute opener for Liberia.
The two-time African champions dominated the second half, with 32-year-old Baghdad Bounedjah scoring on a rebound in the 64th minute before Amine Gouiri netted his fourth goal of the qualifying campaign. Mohammed Amoura completed the rout in stoppage time.
In the group’s other match, Togo secured its first victory of the campaign with a 3-0 win over Equatorial Guinea, powered by Yaw Annor’s double and a goal from Kevin Denkey.
Algeria finished unbeaten atop Group E with 16 points, well ahead of already-qualified Equatorial Guinea’s eight points. Togo collected five points and Liberia finished last with four.
The qualifiers continue with nine matches Monday and 13 Tuesday as 11 countries compete for the final five places in the 24-team tournament, scheduled to begin in Morocco on December 21, 2024.
