Algeria delivered a commanding statement of intent in their CHAN 2024 debut, dismantling Uganda 3-0 in front of a partisan crowd at Kampala’s Nelson Mandela Stadium.
Madjid Bougherra’s side were ruthless in their execution, overpowering the Cranes with a blend of tactical discipline and relentless offensive pressure that underlined their ambitions of lifting the trophy.
With the stadium filled to capacity in support of the home side, Algeria wasted no time asserting their dominance.
From the opening whistle, Bougherra’s men suffocated Uganda with high pressing, forcing the hosts into a reactive, defensive posture.
Uganda, unable to escape their own half, were subjected to wave after wave of Algerian attacks.
The breakthrough came in the 37th minute, a reward for Algeria’s sustained pressure.
A corner from Abderrahmane Meziane was expertly delivered into the near post, where Aïmen Mahious’s movement disrupted Uganda’s defence.
Capitalising on the chaos, captain Ayoub Ghezala rose unchallenged to head home the opener, silencing the home crowd and giving Algeria a deserved lead.
Algeria nearly doubled their advantage moments later when Abdennour Belhocini orchestrated a swift counter-attack, combining with Mahious inside the box.
Opting for power over precision, Mahious sent his shot soaring over the crossbar, letting Uganda off the hook.
Despite their overwhelming possession, Algeria’s lead remained narrow at the break, though Uganda offered little threat in return, save for a speculative header by Odong which was calmly dealt with by goalkeeper Helfaya.
The second half saw Algeria elevate their performance further.
Bougherra’s substitutions proved inspired, particularly the introduction of Sofiane Bayazid in the 70th minute.
The MCA forward wasted little time making his mark, latching onto a backheel flick from Boukerchaoui, with Naoufel Khacef adding a deft touch to set him through on goal.
With composure, Bayazid rounded goalkeeper Mutakubwa and slotted into an empty net, effectively sealing the contest in the 79th minute.
Before Bayazid’s goal, Algeria had already extended their lead through a beautifully crafted team move.
Right-back Helaïmia initiated the attack, linking up with Belhocini, whose precise pass found Meziane in the penalty area.
After his initial shot was parried, Meziane calmly slotted home the rebound to double Algeria’s advantage in the 76th minute.
Outclassed in every department, Uganda’s attempts to salvage pride were hampered by poor finishing and lack of creativity in the final third.
Kakande’s off-target effort summed up a frustrating night for Morley Byekwaso’s side, who found themselves overwhelmed by Algeria’s superior quality and intensity.
With this emphatic victory, Algeria not only secured three vital points but also sent a clear message to their CHAN rivals.
Bougherra’s team showcased the blend of flair, organisation, and depth that marks them as one of the early frontrunners in the race for the continental crown.
