CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes fall to ruthless Algeria at home

Co-hosts Uganda Cranes endured a rough start to their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign after falling 3-0 to a clinical Algeria side in their opening Group C fixture at the Mandela National Stadium in Namboole on Monday night.

Backed by a passionate home crowd under the floodlights, Uganda looked to mark the tournament’s return to home soil with a spirited performance, but it was the Desert Foxes who dominated early proceedings and set the tone for the night.

The visitors launched their first warning sign in the 6th minute with a swift attack that tested Uganda’s backline. However, the Cranes defence stood tall and dealt with the threat.

As the game clock approached 20 minutes, Uganda began to grow in confidence. Jude Ssemugabi, operating on the right flank, beat his marker with a clever dribble and delivered a low cross, but the Algerian defence was alert to clear the danger.

However, just as Uganda seemed to be settling into the game, a lapse in concentration at the back cost them dearly. In the 36th minute, Algerian captain Ayoub Ghezala rose highest to head home from a corner, giving the North Africans a 1-0 lead.

Coach Morley Byekwaso made a tactical shift at the break, introducing Karim Watambala for Jude Ssemugabi. This move saw Allan Okello switch to the right wing while Watambala slotted into the attacking midfield role.

The change sparked Uganda into life, as they began to dictate the pace of the game. Okello, Kakande, and Watambala all had chances to draw the Cranes level, with the fans in full voice urging them on.

Despite Uganda’s improved second-half showing, Algeria remained composed and punished the hosts with brutal efficiency. In the 69th minute, they made a double substitution: Soufiane Bayazid came on for Aimen Mahious and Naoufel Khacef replaced Abdennour Belhocini.

Just four minutes later, Uganda responded with their own double switch—Shafiq Nana Kwikiriza replaced Enock Ssebagala and Yunus Sentamu came on for Anyama. But Algeria doubled their advantage in the 75th minute through Abderrahmane Meziane, whose composed finish gave Mutakubwa no chance.

The third goal came just three minutes later, and it was substitute Soufiane Bayazid who sealed Uganda’s fate. He rounded off goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa with ease and slotted the ball into an empty net, sending the visiting bench into celebration.

The 3-0 defeat leaves Uganda at the bottom of Group C, with work to do ahead of their second match against Guinea on Friday, August 8. Guinea, who earlier beat Niger 1-0 in the day’s first Group C encounter, top the group.