The 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group C heats up on Friday, August 8, as co-hosts Uganda, tournament favourites Algeria, and South Africa all take to the field at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The day will feature two crucial fixtures that could shape the group standings.
In the early kick-off, Algeria will lock horns with South Africa at 5:00 PM EAT, before the hosts Uganda return to action in a high-stakes clash against Guinea at 8:00 PM.
Algeria head into their second match riding high after a commanding 3-0 win over Uganda in the tournament opener. Coach Madjid Bougherra, however, remains grounded, acknowledging the unpredictability of tournament football.
‘Every game is a final,’ Bougherra said. ‘South Africa brings a different kind of challenge — very vibrant, quick and technical. We see these players in the CAF Champions League. It’s up to us to adapt and give everything.’
On concerns about venue changes and preparation disruptions, Bougherra remained unfazed:
‘We have had to switch training grounds, but it’s part of the game. We are used to adapting. Conditions are good and there are no logistical issues.’
Despite his impressive unbeaten streak since taking over, the former Algerian international refuses to dwell on statistics.
“Yes, we have not lost and I take pride in that — but the real pressure is always about the next match, not the last one.’
Midfielder Iheb Belhocini echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasising the team’s unity and focus:
‘We are in high spirits. The camp atmosphere is great, and as always, we are approaching this as a final.’
Meanwhile, South Africa, under the leadership of Molefi Ntseki, are preparing to play their tournament match with confidence and calculated caution.
‘We appreciate CAF for organising a tournament of this scale,’ Ntseki remarked. ‘The opening minutes and the final quarter of the match are always tricky and we’ve seen that already.’
While some view Algeria’s prior match experience as an advantage, Ntseki dismissed the notion:
‘Preparation is everything. We have studied all our group opponents and our focus is purely on our own game and strengths. Algeria is strong and experienced, but so are we.’
On the challenge of assembling a squad amid domestic competitions and unattached players, Ntseki acknowledged the realities:
‘It’s the nature of African football today. Despite some players being between clubs, they have shown commitment and we are proud of them for representing the country.’
South Africa’s captain Neo Maema, brimming with anticipation, emphasized the opportunity that lies ahead:
‘This is a unique platform for us. We want to enjoy the moment but also compete at the highest level. Our goal is to win the tournament and we are ready.’
Later in the evening, all eyes will be on the Uganda Cranes as they look to bounce back from their humbling 3-0 loss to Algeria. Facing a Guinea side that edged Niger 1-0 in their opener, this match is nothing short of a must-win for the hosts.
Coach Morley Byekwaso is under no illusions about the stakes:
‘We are under pressure, no doubt. But we have worked on our mistakes and are fully focused on Guinea. We need to respond, and we are determined to do so.’
Drawing on their previous World Cup qualifier win over Guinea, Byekwaso remains cautiously optimistic:
‘We beat them months ago, but this is a different context and team. Only a few players from that game are still here. We have to earn this one afresh.’
On the fans walking out during the Algeria defeat, the coach urged renewed support:
‘We need our supporters back. We ask them to believe in us.’
Third-choice captain and dependable defender Rogers Torach echoed the coach’s positivity, expressing the squad’s readiness and determination to turn things around.
‘The team is fired up and focused. We know what is at stake and we are not dwelling on the past. Everyone is ready to fight for the badge. We want to make our fans proud and keep our dream alive,’ said Torach.
Meanwhile, Guinea coach Souleymane Camara knows a second win would secure early qualification and is keen to maintain focus.
‘We are building momentum. A 1-0 win again would be fine — it’s the points that matter. Algeria may be favourites, but we’re here to compete.’
While reluctant to reveal tactical secrets, Camara exuded quiet confidence in his squad depth and adaptability:
‘We made key changes against Niger, and they worked well. That shows we have options. No injuries, all players are available and focused.’
Asked about Uganda’s earlier win over Guinea in qualifiers, Camara waved off any talk of revenge:
‘That was a different time, different team. We are here with one objective — to give our best and advance.’
Guinea’s experienced player Ibrahima Sory Sankhon reinforced the team’s mental readiness:
‘We know the atmosphere will be charged, but we are prepared for it. We have to stay focused and correct the small mistakes.’
