FRANCEVILLE, Gabon – Algeria's newly crowned African Footballer of the Year Riyad Mahrez scored twice as they rescued a point in a 2-2 draw against Zimbabwe in a thrilling opening Group B game at the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.
Mahrez had handed Algeria a 12th-minute lead with a goal befitting his new status, but then saw Zimbabwe come from behind to lead with just eight minutes left before the Leicester City forward salvaged a draw by completing his double.
A 17th-minute goal from Kudakwashe Mahachi and a penalty from Nyasha Mushekwi in the 29th gave a Zimbabwe a 2-1 lead as they surprised one of the tournament's heavyweights with the ferocity of their attacking play.
Later on Sunday, the second Group B game sees Senegal facing Tunisia at the Stade de Franceville.