CHAN 2024: Algeria clobber Uganda in Kampala

Algeria’s Desert Foxes produced a clinical performance to sweep aside Uganda Cranes 3–0 in their CHAN 2024 Group C opener at the Mandela National Stadium, Kampala. The victory puts the North Africans firmly in control of the group.

Algeria signaled their intent early, dominating possession and unsettling the Ugandan backline with crisp passing and quick interchanges.

Uganda tried to soak up the pressure and hit on the counter through Patrick Kakande and Jude Ssemugabi, but failed to create clear-cut chances.

The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Algeria’s captain Ayoub Ghezala rose unmarked to nod home from a corner kick, punishing the Cranes for a lapse in defensive concentration.

 Uganda’s attempts to respond before the break were blunted by Algeria’s disciplined defending.

The second half saw the hosts briefly show attacking intent, with Allan Okello and Kizito Mugweri combining well, but their efforts lacked the cutting edge to trouble goalkeeper Ahmed Toufik.

The introduction of Abdul‑Karim Watambala was meant to bolster midfield control, yet Algeria’s composure proved decisive.

In the 76th minute, Meziane Abderrahmane doubled Algeria’s lead, finishing a flowing move with precision.

 Three minutes later, substitute Soufiane Beyazid sealed the win with a cool finish, capping a ruthless attacking display from the Desert Foxes.

Uganda’s frustration boiled over with yellow cards to Emmanuel Anyama and Joel Sserunjogi, further disrupting their rhythm.

With only one shot on target all game, the Cranes were left to rue missed opportunities and lapses in concentration.

The defeat not only dents Uganda’s hopes of progressing but also rules them out of the promised exclusive reward package from President Yoweri Museveni for a strong tournament start.

Elsewhere in Group C, Guinea edged Niger 1–0 courtesy of a Mohammed Bangoura strike, leaving Algeria top of the standings after matchday one.

CHAN 2024 action continues on Tuesday with Group D encounters: Congo face Sudan at Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium, while Nigeria takes on Senegal in a highly anticipated clash at the same venue.