Group C reaches climax, with no margin for error for three teams
As Group C reaches its climax, the margins are razor thin. For Algeria, Uganda, and South Africa, the next 90 minutes will define their CHAN journey.
Algeria face a make-or-break clash against Niger in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, knowing only victory will keep their campaign alive.
Sitting second in Group C with three points, the local Greens must win to guarantee a place in the knockout stage and could even top the group if results elsewhere fall their way. Niger, already eliminated, have little to play for but pride.
Coach Madjid Bougherra has left no room for doubt. “Our next match is very important for us because it will determine our qualification for the next round,” he said. “We hope to finish first in the group, but the main thing is to win.”
Algeria’s performances have been inconsistent—an opening victory over South Africa raised hopes, but a lacklustre showing against Guinea exposed familiar weaknesses. Bougherra admitted he reminded his players of the standards required. “We must not play like we did against Guinea. If we repeat the same matches as against South Africa or Uganda, that’s where we can go far, in sha Allah.”
For the coach, the key lies in collective effort and mentality. “The real strength of our team is team spirit. That’s what will make the difference,” he insisted. Still, finishing remains a concern. “The problem of converting opportunities still haunts us. But we are making efforts to improve. The important thing is that we score in every match.”
Preparation in Nairobi has been “serious and focused,” according to Bougherra, though doubts remain over goalkeeper Akram Bouras, who only recently returned to training. “His starting role is not certain. We will not take any risks,” he confirmed.
Despite Niger’s struggles, the coach has urged his side not to underestimate their opponents. “We must take advantage of every opportunity to make a difference. The players are determined to deliver a performance worthy of the national jersey.”
While Algeria fight for survival, the other Group C fixture in Kampala promises drama of its own. Uganda, top of the group with six points, need only a draw against South Africa to qualify. Bafana Bafana, on four points, have no margin for error.
Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso called it a historic moment. “We know it will be very tough, but this is our moment to make history. We want to bring joy to our fans and play with our hearts,” he said. His side have been resilient, bouncing back from defeat to Algeria with back-to-back wins, driven by midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala and goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa.
For South Africa, coach Molefi Ntseki framed the contest as a final. “We are fully aware that this is decisive. The pressure is on Uganda, who are at home. We will focus on our strategy and take advantage of transition moments,” he explained. Defender Kwandakwensizwa Mngonyama echoed the resolve: “Tomorrow, we want to demonstrate discipline and dedication on the pitch.”
With both sides evenly matched in recent meetings, the Mandela National Stadium is set for a fierce battle. Uganda’s energy and home support clash with South Africa’s experience in high-pressure away games. Efficiency in front of goal could prove decisive.
