Algeria booked their place in the group stage of the CHAN finals with a commanding 3-0 aggregate victory over Gambia, following a goalless first-leg draw in Bakau last week.
The decisive second leg at the Stade du 19 Mai 1956 saw a cautious first half, but the North Africans burst into life after the break, delivering a dynamic attacking performance led by Adil Boulbina and Bouras Akram.
The breakthrough came just 40 seconds into the second half, when Abderrahmane Meziane fired a low drive past the Gambian goalkeeper to put Algeria ahead.
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However, it was the introduction of Adil Boulbina, the top scorer in Algeria’s domestic league, that proved pivotal. The 22-year-old Paradou AC striker netted twice in the final 15 minutes, with both goals set up by the impressive Bouras Akram of MC Alger.
Boulbina’s first goal arrived in the 76th minute, as he beat the offside trap and lobbed the advancing goalkeeper. He completed his brace in added time with a composed finish from a tight angle, sealing a dominant win for the hosts.
Coach Madjid Bougherra’s side were made to battle in the first leg but capitalised on better pitch conditions at home to clinically dispatch the Scorpions and secure their progression.
