Crucial fixtures in Group C of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) are set to unfold on Monday, with South Africa taking on Guinea and Uganda facing Niger in a day that could reshape the group standings.
South Africa vs Guinea – 14:00 (Local Time)
Both South Africa and Guinea head into their encounter knowing that only a win will realistically keep their quarter-final hopes alive. Anything short of three points could leave either side on the brink of an early exit from the competition.
South Africa come into the match following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Algeria in their opening fixture. The result, though encouraging, leaves the hosts with work to do if they are to progress from a tightly contested group.
Their performance against Algeria showed moments of quality and determination, but sharper finishing and greater consistency will be required if they are to overcome Guinea.
Guinea, on the other hand, will be looking to put a disappointing start behind them. The Syli National were convincingly beaten 3-0 by Uganda in their first match, a result that has left them bottom of the group and under considerable pressure. A repeat of that performance could spell the end of their CHAN 2024 campaign.
For both sides, the stakes could not be higher. The match is expected to be fiercely competitive, with South Africa hoping to capitalise on home support and Guinea determined to prove their opening loss was merely a blip. A victory for either team would be a lifeline, while anything less could be disastrous.
Uganda vs Niger – 17:00 (Local Time)
Uganda, buoyed by their commanding victory over Guinea in the opening round, have the opportunity to secure early qualification for the knockout stages. The Cranes were dominant in their first outing, showing confidence, cohesion, and clinical finishing.
Facing them will be a Niger side with no room for error. After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Guinea in their previous match, the Mena now find themselves in a must-win situation. A second loss would effectively eliminate them from the tournament.
Uganda will look to take full advantage of the momentum they’ve built, with the added benefit of vocal home support expected to drive them forward. Meanwhile, Niger, who will be backed by a small contingent of travelling fans—reportedly fewer than 300—must find a way to silence the crowd and keep their campaign alive.
The outcome of this match could also have implications for the earlier South Africa–Guinea clash, especially in terms of goal difference and the overall group dynamic. With so much riding on the day’s fixtures, the atmosphere is set to be electric.
CHAN 2024 – Monday’s Group C Fixtures:
- 14:00 – South Africa vs Guinea
- 17:00 – Uganda vs Niger
With all four teams still in contention, Monday’s matches promise high drama, intense competition, and possibly decisive twists in the battle for quarter-final places.
