AFCON 2025: Algeria Beat Equatorial Guinea 3–1, Finish Top of  Group E

Algeria delivered a commanding 3–1 victory over Equatorial Guinea in their final Group E match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, producing a strong statement performance to finish top of the group and secure qualification for the Round of 16.

The Desert Foxes took full control of the encounter in the first half, racing to a 3–0 lead before the break.

Centre-back Zineddine Belaïd opened the scoring with a powerful header, rising highest from a well-whipped set-piece to put Algeria ahead early.

Algeria doubled their lead minutes later through Farès Chaïbi, who finished calmly after a quick attacking sequence that split the Equatorial Guinea defence.

The Desert Foxes then delivered a third blow before halftime when Ibrahim Maza slotted home with precision, capping off a dominant 45 minutes in which Algeria controlled possession, dictated tempo, and created the better chances.

After the restart, Equatorial Guinea showed renewed fight and managed to pull one back in the second half through captain and tournament veteran Emilio Nsue.

The forward converted a chance inside the box to spark hope of a comeback, but Algeria remained organised defensively and managed the game effectively to deny further damage.

Despite their improved effort in the second half, Equatorial Guinea could not overturn the deficit and ultimately exited the tournament, finishing outside the qualification spots.

Algeria’s win ensured they finished top of Group E, confirming their place in the knockout stage, where they will now turn attention to the Round of 16 with momentum and confidence.

Their first-half dominance underscored their attacking quality and defensive stability—key traits they hope will carry them deeper into the competition.

Equatorial Guinea, meanwhile, bowed out after failing to build on their second-half goal, marking a disappointing end to their AFCON campaign.

The Desert Foxes will await confirmation of their next opponent as the group stage concludes, but one thing is clear—Algeria have arrived in the knockouts in strong form and will be one of the teams to watch as AFCON 2025 heats up.