South Africa hold Algeria to keep CHAN Group C wide open

Algeria’s winning start at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to an end after South Africa battled to a 1-1 draw in their Group C encounter on Friday in Kampala.

The North Africans, who comfortably defeated co-hosts Uganda 3-0 in their opener, took the lead through Abdennour Belhocini’s well-placed effort in the 29th minute. But Bafana Bafana hit back just before half-time, with Thabiso Kutumela finishing off a smart move involving Menzi Masuku and Neo Maema.

The result sees Algeria move to four points after two matches, while South Africa pick up an important point in their first appearance at CHAN in over a decade.

Algeria started strongly and looked set to maintain their perfect record, dominating possession and creating early chances. Belhocini’s strike capped a bright opening spell, but the equaliser just before the break shifted the momentum.

In the second half, both sides fought to secure a winner. Algeria created more openings, but South Africa defended resolutely, with goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu and captain Ramahlwe Mphahlele standing firm.

Coach Madjid Bougherra will be disappointed that Algeria’s long-standing defensive record was broken; they had gone over 450 minutes in the group stage without conceding, but remain well-placed for a quarter-final spot with a game against Niger to come.

South Africa, buoyed by the result, will now prepare for a decisive clash with Uganda. With all four teams still mathematically in contention, the group remains wide open heading into the final round.

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