Algeria’s A’ national team will look to build on their emphatic opening victory over Uganda when they face South Africa in their second Group C fixture at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) this Friday.
Following a 3-0 triumph at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Madjid Bougherra’s men know that another three points would all but secure their passage to the knockout stages.
The stakes are high as Algeria seeks to confirm their status as genuine title contenders.
Despite the scoreline in their opener, the first half against Uganda exposed moments of disjointed play, prompting Bougherra to call for a sharper, more cohesive performance from the outset in their next outing.
This match is crucial. We need to build on the positives from the second half against Uganda and show more fluidity in our game, Bougherra remarked ahead of the clash. Aware of the stronger challenge South Africa poses, the Algerian coach emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity and focus throughout the 90 minutes.
For South Africa, this encounter marks their first appearance in the tournament after being exempt on the opening matchday.
Known for their disciplined structure and physicality, the South Africans are adept at controlling tempo and disrupting opposition rhythm — a factor Algeria will need to counter with quick ball movement and tactical precision.
The Algerian squad is well aware that a win against South Africa would not only edge them closer to the quarter-finals but also send a strong signal to the rest of the competition.
Bougherra’s players will need to showcase the same attacking flair that saw them break Uganda’s resistance, while also tightening the lapses that were evident during the early stages of their first outing.
A second consecutive victory would place Algeria in a commanding position atop Group C, allowing them to approach their remaining group fixtures with greater confidence and tactical flexibility.
However, any slip-up could complicate their path to the latter stages of a tournament they are determined to win.
With the atmosphere around the squad brimming with optimism yet tempered by caution, Algeria steps into this pivotal encounter fully aware that their championship ambitions hinge on consistent performances.
The clash against South Africa is more than just a match — it is a test of Algeria’s resolve to turn a promising start into a formidable campaign.
