In an impressive start to their TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 campaign, Algeria delivered a commanding performance, defeating co-hosts Uganda 3-0 at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Monday evening.
The North African giants showcased their tournament experience with goals from Ayoub Ghezala, Abderrahmane Meziane, and Soufiane Bayazid, leaving Uganda struggling to cope in front of a spirited home crowd. With this victory, Algeria extended their unbeaten record in the group stage of CHAN to seven matches, while this marked their third consecutive win over Uganda in the tournament.
Algeria took the lead in the 36th minute when Ayoub Ghezala connected with a well-taken corner from Meziane, scoring with a deft header that beat Ugandan goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa. Despite a spirited effort from the Cranes, including long-range attempts from Joel Sserunjogi and Patrick Kakande, Algeria maintained their lead going into halftime, thanks to a crucial save from keeper Zakaria Bouhalfaya.
The second half saw Uganda pushing harder, but their efforts were met with an organized Algerian defense. Algeria capitalized on this, doubling their lead in the 76th minute through Meziane’s composed finish after a thoughtful setup by Messalla Merbah. Just minutes later, Bayazid added a third, confirming the victory with a close-range strike following a well-executed attacking sequence.
Despite several attempts by Uganda, including two long-range shots from Karim Watambala and a header by Gavin Kizito, they could not find the back of the net. Substitutes Yunus Sentamu and Reagan Mpande brought fresh energy late in the game, but Algeria’s backline, led by Adem Alilet and Ilyés Chétti, held firm.
The night ended on a disappointing note for Uganda, with substitute Shafik Kwikiriza receiving a yellow card in stoppage time. As they look ahead, Uganda faces a tough challenge against South Africa in their next group stage match.
For Algeria, this latest success reinforces their strong CHAN record, now boasting 10 clean sheets in their last 13 matches. With key players like Meziane and Mahious in form, the Desert Foxes appear poised to make a serious title challenge as the tournament progresses. They will next face Niger, where a victory could secure their early qualification for the knockout stages.
As the CHAN PAMOJA 2024 continues, Algeria’s decisive win sets a high standard for others in Group C to meet.
