The Orange CAF U-20 African Championship 2013 kicked off on Saturday, with the home team Algeria being held to a goalless draw by Benin at Omar Oucef Stadium, Ain Timouchent. In front of a full house stadium Algeria couldn't find the decisive goal despite having the lion's share of possession. The opening day double header concludes with Egypt taking on Ghana at the same venue.

After a simple opening ceremony, Algeria started the game on an attacking note. The Young Foxes French coach Jan Marc Nobilo fielded in a lineup with five players who play in France, namely Nassim Torch, Mokhtar Rabah Tommy, Kenzy Zenadi, Bilal Aiulai and Tomas Paul Izerghof. The later had the chance to put Algeria ahead early into the game but Benin's defense stood tall to deny him the opening goal.

The second half was very much the same with the home side pressing in search of the opening goal. The Algerians best chance came into the 67th minute when Harrouche Zakaria headed from Aouali's cross. The crowd celebrated as they thought the ball had gone into the net only to see it was outside the net.

Benin looked more content to use counter attacks but without posing any real threat on Nassim Torche's goal. The game ended in a barren draw as both sides enter second group matches on a point each. Algeria will take on North African neighbours Egypt, where Benin faces Ghana in match Day 2 in Group A.