[AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS]
Things could have not begun any worse for Algeria, which will face the USA at the World Cup. The Desert Foxes opened play at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-0 loss to Malawi Monday in Luanda. Malawi was making its first appearance in the African championship in 26 years and had never won a game at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Heavily favored Algeria wilted in the heat and gave up goals to Russell Mwafulirwa in the 17th minute, Elvis Kafoteka just before the half and Davi Banda two minutes after the break.
Fennecs goalie Fawzi Chaouchi was at fault on the first and third goals.
Algeria coach Rabah Saadane blamed the loss on the heat and humidity, saying his players didn't play up to their level.
"I think that CAF [the African soccer confederation] has to rethink its scheduling," said Saadane.
In Monday's other game, pre-tournament favorite Ivory Coast had to settle for a 0-0 tie with Burkina Faso.
Togo officially withdrew from the tournament, so its game Monday against Ghana was called off.
Malawi-Algeria Highlights:
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