CHAN: Algeria were better than Sudan but luck wasn’t on our side – Bougherra

Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra has maintained his side was better than Sudan despite losing on penalties to exit the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the quarterfinals stage in East Africa.

Playing at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, the Falcons of Jediane held their nerve in a dramatic shoot-out after a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja the hero after saving twice. Appiah’s side, who topped Group D, remain unbeaten in the tournament and continue to build on their remarkable resurgence.

“I thank the players and I’m proud of their performance. Whatever God wills, happens. They were real men on the field and gave everything they had,” said Bougherra as quoted by CAFOnline.com. “For example, Meziane played while injured, and I thank him for his sacrifice for the national team. He was a role model.”

He added: “We were better than Sudan in the match, but luck wasn’t on our side. Sometimes we play well and don’t win, and other times it’s the opposite. We were able to put together a good group during this tournament, and the future will be better for us.”

The Desert Foxes, finalists in 2022, bowed out earlier than expected and saw their impressive unbeaten run snapped in painful fashion.

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