Angola hit back to force draw with uninspiring Tunisia

Tunisia's Youssef Msakni scores their first goal from the penalty spot.
Tunisia's Youssef Msakni scores their first goal from the penalty spot.
Image: REUTERS

Angola salvaged a surprise but deserved 1-1 draw against an uninspired Tunisia after Djalma Campos cancelled out a Youssef Msakni penalty in their Africa Cup of Nations opener on Monday.

Tunisia went ahead against the run of play in the 34th minute of the Group E match when Msakni fired his spot kick into the roof of the net after Naim Sliti was upended by Salomao Paizo.

But Tunisia, firm favourites to win the group, failed to build on the lead and Djalma made them pay by snapping up a rebound after Tunisia goalkeeper Farouk Ben Mustapha failed to hold a shot in the 73rd minute.

Mali and Mauritania were meeting later on Monday in the second half of a double bill at the Suez Army stadium.