Africa Cup of Nations: Algeria Beat Nigeria 2-1 To Reach Final

Riyad Mahrez seized an important moment late in injury time and scored from a free-kick as Algeria thrashed Nigeria 2-1 to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations final. 

Algeria had kept a clean sheet throughout until their match against Nigeria when they conceded for the first time in the tournament.

Three-time champions, Nigeria, were first to concede a goal with William Troost-Ekong deflected in Mahrez's cross minutes before the half-time but restored the hope of making it to the final when Odion Ighalo converted a penalty. 

The match could have progressed to extra-time but a foul committed by Wilfred Ndidi gave Manchester City star Mahrez the scoring chance and he shot the ball into the top right corner of the goal. 

It turned out to be a disappointing end for the Nigerian side but it was a well-deserved victory for the Algiers who last won the competition in 1990. 

Nigeria will be fighting for the bronze medal and will be meeting West African side Senegal in the third play playoff on Friday.