CHAN 2024: Algeria ready for South Africa test as Bougherra expects high-intensity clash

Algeria will face South Africa in their second Group C fixture of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Friday at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, with head coach Madjid Bougherra anticipating a highly competitive encounter.

Following a convincing 3-0 win over hosts Uganda in their tournament opener, the Algerians head into the match full of confidence.

However, Bougherra is under no illusions about the challenge his side will face against a South African team he regards as one of the tournament’s top contenders.

Speaking at Thursday’s pre-match press conference, the former national team defender underlined the magnitude of the task ahead.

“South Africa is definitely one of the favourites in this competition,” he said. “The intensity and excitement for this match will be higher because we have two great footballing nations. For me, I approach each match the same way—with the same seriousness and concentration regardless of the opponent.”

South Africa, who were exempt from the first round of matches, will be making their tournament debut against Algeria. Their squad features players largely drawn from domestic powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates—clubs that reached the semi-finals of the most recent CAF Champions League, with Sundowns going on to play in the final.

That pedigree, Bougherra acknowledged, makes them a well-balanced and dangerous opponent.

Despite the formidable opposition, Algeria enter the fixture at the top of Group C, ahead of Guinea on goal difference.

Their commanding performance against Uganda has boosted optimism within the camp, with Abderrahmane Meziane and his teammates aiming to build on their early momentum.

The stakes are clear: a victory would not only place Algeria in a strong position to secure qualification for the quarter-finals but also serve as a statement of intent in their pursuit of the title. With both sides eyeing top honours, Friday’s clash promises to be a pivotal moment in the group stage.

Bougherra’s focus remains squarely on ensuring his side maintains the same level of discipline and tactical organisation that earned them a clean sheet and three goals in their first match.

However, he remains cautious, particularly of South Africa’s attacking threat led by Neo Maema, a player who has been earmarked as one to watch.

“This match will be decided by small details,” Bougherra added. “We must stay sharp, focused, and stick to our game plan.”

As the Fennecs prepare to take on the Bafana Bafana, the sense of anticipation is building. A win for either side would be worth more than just three points—it could well shape the direction of the tournament for two of its most promising teams.