CHAN 2024: South Africa hold Algeria to a draw and claim an opening point | OneFootball

Local Bafana Bafana secure their first result in the tournament.

CHAN 2024: South Africa hold Algeria to a draw and claim an opening point

Algeria and South Africa played out a 1-1 draw on Friday, August 8, at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, in the second round of Group C at CHAN 2024. Belhocini opened the scoring for the Fennecs in the 29th minute, before Kutumela equalized just before half-time.

Algeria's momentum stalled

Abdennour Belhocini put Algeria ahead, capitalizing on a poorly cleared ball at the edge of the box. His 29th-minute goal rewarded a dominant start from the Greens, who looked well-organized and enterprising. But their lead didn't last until the break. On a rapid counter, Thabiso Kutumela exploited a defensive lapse to level the score in the 45th minute, bringing Bafana Bafana right back into the contest.

After the break, Algeria pushed hard to restore their lead, piling on the pressure with numerous attacking moves but failing to convert. Despite clear territorial dominance and several dangerous chances, Madjid Bougherra's men lacked the finishing touch in the final third. On the other side, South Africa stood firm, showing great resilience to secure a valuable point in their tournament opener.

The group remains wide open

With this draw, Algeria temporarily retain top spot in Group C with four points, following their opening win over Uganda (3-0). South Africa, playing their first match, start their campaign with a point. The upcoming fixtures against Guinea and Niger will be crucial for the Fennecs as they look to secure qualification.