The race for qualification from Group C of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has been thrown wide open after a dramatic day of action in Kampala on Friday.
In the early kick-off, South Africa held tournament favourites Algeria to a 1-1 draw, denying the North Africans a second consecutive win.
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Later in the evening, hosts Uganda reignited their campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Guinea, setting up a thrilling final round of chan group matches.
South Africa Frustrate Algeria
Algeria, fresh from a 3-0 demolition of Uganda in their opener, started confidently and took the lead in the 29th minute when Abdennour Belhocini drilled a precise left-footed shot past goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu.
However, Bafana Bafana, returning to the tournament after an 11-year absence, struck back just before the break. A flowing move involving Menzi Masuku and Neo Maema unlocked Algeria’s defence, allowing Thabiso Kutumela to finish coolly from close range in the 45th minute.
The second half was evenly contested, with chances for both sides. Algeria pressed for a winner through Abderrahmane Meziane and Aimen Mahious, while South Africa tested keeper Zakaria Bouhalfaya from range. Strong defensive organisation, led by captain Ramahlwe Mphahlele, ensured the points were shared.
The result ends Algeria’s run of over 450 minutes without conceding in CHAN group matches but keeps them top of the standings with four points.
Uganda Hit Guinea for Three
In the late fixture, Uganda delivered a much-improved performance to bounce back from their opening defeat. Reagan Mpande’s 31st-minute header from a Joel Sserunjogi free-kick set the tone, lifting the home crowd at Nelson Mandela National Stadium.
Allan Okello doubled the advantage from the penalty spot just before the hour mark after a VAR review confirmed Aboubacar Bangoura’s foul. Guinea thought they had earned a spot-kick moments later, but VAR overturned the decision.
As Guinea pushed forward, Uganda sealed the win in the 89th minute when substitute Ivan Ahimbisibwe latched onto Karim Watambala’s perfectly weighted pass and slotted home for 3-0.
The victory moves Uganda to second place on goal difference, level on three points with Guinea, and just one point behind Algeria.
Group C Now Balanced on a Knife Edge
With Algeria on four points, Uganda and Guinea on three, and South Africa on one, all four teams remain in contention for the quarter-finals. The final round will see Algeria face Guinea and Uganda take on South Africa, with knockout qualification on the line.
Friday’s results have ensured Group C will go down to the wire, with no margin for error for any side.
