CHAN: Niger were aggressive and difficult to break down, admits Algeria’s Khacef

Algeria defender Mohamed Naoufel Khacef has explained why it was difficult for his side to win their final TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) against Niger at Nyayo National Stadium on Monday.

The North Africans secured a 0-0 draw against Niger to seal their place in the knockout stages.

The holders of the 2022 runners-up place came into the final group fixture knowing a single point would be sufficient, and despite struggling to break down an organised Nigerien defence, Madjid Bougherra’s men did just enough to extend their stay in the tournament.

Speaking after the game, Khacef, who was named man of the match for his tireless display, said: “It was not an easy match because Niger were very aggressive and difficult to break down,” he said as quoted by CAFOnline.com. “They made it tough because they also wanted to leave with something.

“We take the positives from this game and move on to the quarter-finals. Of course we wanted to win in our last match but the most important thing for us was the qualification and we hope we can go on till the final.”

On winning man of the match, he said: “I am delighted to be named the TotalEnergies Man of the Match.”

The North Africans had enough chances to win the battle, Soufiane Bayazid and Mehdi Merghem both testing Niger’s goalkeeper Mahamadou Tanja.