Baghdad Bounedjah became the hero as Algeria won their second trophy, ending a 29-year hunt for continental glory.
Bounedjah’s heavily deflected goal in the second minute proved the difference as Senegal labored unsuccessfully to break their duck at the AFCON.
The performance of the Desert Foxes on the day was not exceptional as it has been throughout the tournament but it did earn them admirers who have commended them for doing everything possible including diving and feigning injuries to defend their national colours.
In a post-match interview, Bounedjah revealed that the players’ desire to honour the Algerian people spurred them on to glory.
“We play for Algeria, we don't play for money, we don't play for fame. When I enter the stadium, I only play for Algeria, I have nothing else I play for”.
This comment by the Qatar-based striker has reignited conversations on social media about the commitment and patriotism of the Black Stars players.
The Black Stars were knocked out of the round of the 16 stage of the 2019 AFCON and earned a whopping $30,000 each for their failure’ .
Below are some of the comments
Hmmmmm https://t.co/w79tICCRiU
— Godfred Akoto Boafo (@eastsportsman) July 20, 2019
I know a certain team; they express their desire to be Africa champions in demand for appearance fees and enhanced bonuses and an ill informed executive falls for it.
— Michael Oti Adjei (@OtiAdjei) July 19, 2019
I know another team that just goes for it and proves it in the effort. Big difference.
Difference btwn champs n ‘blood suckers’. But I don’t blame our players, we as a country created n pampered this dawgs to become monsters
— Reubenish???????? (@Reubenish) July 20, 2019
There is no difference between the Black Stars and Politician's, that's why I don't wish them well since Brazil 2014. But ignorant executives will always fall for their tricks.
— Benjamin Oletey Kitcher (@BenjaminKitcher) July 19, 2019
I know a team with a Mr Big shirt, no tactics, uninspiring demeanor coach. He is a master of the long con and has played on the locals need for a local coach.
— Ima Adjei (@imaadjei) July 19, 2019
I know an inspiring local coach who goes for it and has won it. Big difference.
This one is commitment, mixed with humility and patriotism. I am touched, unfortunately we cannot say same of some people. So hmmmm too!
— Awo (@AwoAdvocates) July 20, 2019
When they say dying for the nation.
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) July 20, 2019
This Djamel Bemlari shirt needs to be in an Algerian Museum. pic.twitter.com/dqUYBDCFGb
Speak to the wise in proverbs https://t.co/YfELw0DNxD
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) July 20, 2019
This thing you tweet, blackstars go bore. Them dey hia money dem p3 get responsibilities, dem no know some things are done for pride and the reward and returns are much greater than those huge winning bonuses
— Paa Quesi Stiifler???????? (@Paa_Quesi) July 20, 2019
