CHAN: Late goal saves point for Algeria against scrappy Guinea

Algeria found a late equalizer in their 1-1 draw against Guinea from Group C of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) but Les Verts’ chances of advancing to the quarterfinals of the competition remain in the balance.

Super sub striker Soufiane Bayazid rescued a point for the 2022 edition runners-up but in truth it was a sloppy performance from the North African side who now may need help on the final day to qualify for the knockout stages due to Friday’s result at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.

Guinea, needing a victory for their survival at the competition, produced an energetic effort that saw them neutralize the Algerian team while looking a bit more dangerous in the first half. However, neither team looked particularly dangerous before the halftime whistle arrived.

But a costly turnover by Algeria midfielder Messala Merbah was costly in the 62nd minute. Struggling to control a pass in the middle of the park, Merbah lost the ball to Ismaël Camara and the Horoya AC midfielder was able to move in uncontested before firing an excellent low finish past Algeria goalkeeper Zakaria Bouhalfaya.

But late on, the last remaining hopes of Guinean qualification to the next stage were dashed by Bayazid. The MC Alger’s initial first-time strike from a cutback by Abderrahmane Meziane was saved by Syli National keeper Mory Keïta but Meziane recovered the ball on the end line and found Bayazid again, who finished with the outside of his boot on the second attempt.

A late push by Algeria could not find the winning goal and the Group C favorites failed to move top of the group, now sitting a point behind first place co-hosts Uganda. One more game against Niger awaits where Algeria will need a result to advance.

South Africa face Niger later on Friday with Bafana Bafana the favorites to win and move top of the group. Guinea are eliminated after finishing their group stage on Friday.

Group C Table

1. Uganda- 6 points (3 games played)
2. Algeria- 5 points (3 games)
3. South Africa- 4 points (2 games)
4. Guinea- 4 points (4 games)
5. Niger- 0 points (2 games)