CHAN: South Africa edge Guinea in Group C clash

South Africa held off a late charge from Guinea to secure a 2-1 victory in Monday’s Group C clash from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.

Thabiso Kutumela’s second goal of the tournament put South Africa ahead for good early in the second half. The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns forward showed off all of his instincts in the penalty area with a first-time finish from Wayde Jooste’s cross.

The first half was an evenly fought affair. Bafana Bafana took the lead inside ten minutes when a long ball into the Guinean penalty area was headed out for Kutumela to collect, who slipped a pass to Neo Maema for a left-footed finish.

The Syli National equalized with a brilliant moment of team play in the 37th minute. Mohamed Bangoura’s excellent overlapping run on the right wing ended with the left back producing a low cross for Moussa Camara to finish with his first touch.

But Guinea could not find a way back into the game after Kutumela’s 54th minute goal which turned out to be the winner. Bangoura unleashed a crashing effort from distance in the 88th minute that Bafana goalkeeper Samukelo Zulu tipped off his crossbar. Guinea substitute Mohamed Diabate stormed into the box to head the rebound just wide into the side netting and South Africa were able to hold on for three points.

South Africa, in a strong position with four points from two games, next face Niger on Friday. Guinea are all but eliminated at this point and must defeat Group C favorites Algeria in their final group stage match, also on Friday.

Group C’s other game from Monday will take place later between co-hosts Uganda and Niger.

Group C Table

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