CHAN: Algeria’s Bougherra remains cautious of ‘unpredictable’ South Africa

Algeria head coach Madjid Bougherra has admitted to being worried of South Africa when the two sides face off in the second Group C fixture of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Namboole Stadium in Kampala, Uganda on Friday.

The North Africans kicked off their campaign with a commanding 3-0 win against hosts Uganda while Bafana Bafana will be playing their first match at CHAN in East Africa.

“We have a focused, disciplined, and motivated team with great group spirit. I believe everything is in place to represent the country in the best way,” said Bougherra as quoted by CAFOnline.com.

“We know South Africa is a good team that can change strategies quickly. We’ll treat this match like a final. We’re ready and will do everything possible to reach the next round.”

He added: “The fact we haven’t lost any matches throughout the campaign is a source of pride, but we prefer to remain humble and work quietly. The outcome will depend on both teams’ desire to win.”

Algeria has now gone ten CHAN matches without conceding a single goal, amassing 682 consecutive minutes with a clean sheet — a remarkable achievement. A win on Friday would lift Algeria to six points and virtually seal their progression to the knockout stage, putting pressure on the rest of the group.