Algeria captain Madjid Bougherra led by example scoring the decisive goal against Burkina Faso and hand Les Fennecs the final African slot for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Bougherra’s 49th minute effort ensured the Algerians snatched the ticket on the away goal rule after a 3-3 aggregate after both legs.
It was a difficult one for the Algerians against a Burkinabe side that were bent on rewriting the history books with their maiden qualification to the biggest stage in world football.
At the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, Les Fennecs finally rose to the occasion and gave their fans a good cause to cheer with the hard fought victory.
After a barren first half which saw Les Etalons give their hosts serious concerns after matching them boot for boot, Les Fennecs started the second half still in search of their opener.
Four minutes from recess, Bougherra broke the deadlock from a goalmouth action following a Faouzi Ghoulam free-kick, capitalizing on the inability of Burkina Faso defender Bakary Kone to clear his lines and set the stadium agog.
Les Etalons fought hard for the equalizer that will put them through but the Algerians defended very well at the back.
At the 90th minute mark, Les Fennecs survived the final onslaught by the visitors from a cornerkick after the ball came off the post and book their place for next year’s event.
Scores of fans partied throughout the night over the qualification of Les Fennecs in most cities including the capital Algiers.
Confederation of African Football News
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate