28 December 2025 at 17:30
Match Summary
Algeria defeated Burkina Faso 1:0. The match was played in Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Goals were scored by R. Mahrez 23′ (pen.). 5 yellow cards were shown. Algeria had 49% possession while Burkina Faso held 51%. Algeria had 10 shots (5 on target) compared to 14 (2 on target) for Burkina Faso. Algeria made 5 substitutions, Burkina Faso made 4. VAR was involved: Card reviewed (Gustavo Sangaré 9′).
Match Events
Key match events between Algeria and Burkina Faso — 1 goals and 5 cards recorded during the match.
Penalty
Match Statistics
Algeria had 49% possession against Burkina Faso's 51%. Algeria registered 10 shots (5 on target) while Burkina Faso managed 14 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 2–6. Fouls committed: 24–19.
Lineups
Algeria lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under Madjid Bougherra, while Burkina Faso deployed a 4-3-3 under Issa Balboné.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Algeria is 7.02, compared to 6.81 for Burkina Faso. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Algeria's highest-rated starter is R. Mahrez (7.68), while Burkina Faso's best-rated player is A. Kouassi (7.45).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Algeria have contributed 5 goals and 3 assists this season, led by R. Mahrez (3G). Burkina Faso's starters account for 2 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by E. Tapsoba (1G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Algeria deploy 4 defenders rated 6.87 on average, against Burkina Faso's 4-man backline averaging 7.00. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Algeria field 5 midfielders averaging 7.16, versus Burkina Faso's 3 rated 6.88. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Algeria start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.65, compared to 3 for Burkina Faso averaging 6.60. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 45% for Algeria and 52% for Burkina Faso. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Algeria's starters have collected 5 yellow cards this season, compared to 5 for Burkina Faso. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Algeria's starting XI is 26.9 (youngest: I. Maza (20), oldest: A. Mandi (34)), while Burkina Faso average 27.2 (youngest: A. Kouassi (21), oldest: I. Dayo (34)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Algeria's starters average 4 league appearances each, versus 3 for Burkina Faso. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: Madjid Bougherra
Substitutes
Coach: Issa Balboné
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Algeria have recorded 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 defeats. Burkina Faso show 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Algeria
Burkina Faso
API data: 15 Mar 2026