Algeria deservedly reached the semi final in the African Cup of Nations because they were 'much better than Ivory Coast', coach Rabah Saadane said. The Desert Foxes secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over pre-tournament favorites Ivory Coast after extra time to book a last-four berth for the first time since winning their sole African title in 1990. A header from substitute Hameur Bouazza two minutes into the first half of extra time broke Ivory Coast's hearts. "We played very well against a powerful team, we were much better than Ivory Coast," Saadane said in a pitch-side interview with Al-Jazeera following Sunday's game. "We are reaping the rewards of a very successful training camp, which lasted for a month before the tournament." Algeria will face the winners of Monday's quarter-final clash between defending champions Egypt and four-time winners Cameroon. Egypt, who eye an unprecedented third consecutive title, could renew their heated rivalry with Algeria if they beat Cameroon in Benguela.
