Mahrez double rescues point for Algeria

FRANCEVILLE, Gabon (Reuters) - 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 African Nations Cup 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.

(Reporting by Mark Gleeson in Libreville; Editing by Ken Ferris)