Algeria winger Riyad Mahrez admitted his side were not at their best as they were held 2-2 by Zimbabwe in their Africa Cup of Nations opener.
The Leicester winger scored both his side’s goals – the second an 82nd-minute equaliser that prevented a shock loss to the rank outsiders.
« We knew the first match was going to be difficult, » Mahrez said.
« We didn’t perform in the first half but played very well in the second half and should have scored more goals. »
He added: « We only have ourselves to blame. We need to keep working and play well in the second match against Tunisia. »
Zimbabwe’s performance was a surprise to many, with few predicting they would be anything other than makeweights in Group B, which also contains Senegal.
Coach Callisto Pasuwa feels his pre-tournament optimism has been justified.
« When I was asked who was the favourite and said Zimbabwe, everyone laughed at me. But in this group there is no small team, » he said.
« I hope the point obtained here will motivate my players to do even better in our next match against Senegal. »
Senegal lead the group after beating Tunisia 2-0.
The second round of Group B matches takes place on Thursday.