Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal 0-1 Algeria: 5 Hits and Flops as the Desert Warriors clinch first title in 29 years

#2 Hit - Ismael Bennacer

Bennacer was named player of the tournament

Ismael Bennacer was once a part of the Arsenal setup, being deemed surplus to requirements and allowed to leave in 2017. Upon arriving Empoli in 2017, the 21-year-old boosted his stock and has courted the attention of a host of clubs across Europe.

He further boosted his reputation in this tournament, as he was nothing short of spectacular from the group stages right through the final.

It took him just two minutes to stamp his authority on the final, as it was his killer through ball that struck panic across the Senegalese back line and allowed Bounedjah to open the scoring.

For the remainder of the match, he discarded his more technical side and brought out his combative personality as Algeria sat back and defended their lead.

Bennacer was everywhere, winning tackles, tracking back, hassling opponents and ensuring the Senegalese midfielders did not get space and time on the ball in a performance which belied his calm and effeminate facade.

He led the way in the assists chart with three assists provided for teammates and was deservedly named the Player of the tournament.