Algeria vs Uganda at CHAN 2024: When and How to Watch Today’s Clash

Marrakech – Algeria face Uganda in the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 opener today at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

The Group C clash kicks off at 6 p.m. Morocco time. This marks the second CHAN meeting between the sides, with Algeria winning their previous encounter 2-0 in 2011.

Uganda enter the tournament as co-hosts with a significant burden to overcome. Despite qualifying for a record seventh consecutive CHAN finals, the Cranes have never progressed beyond the group stage in six previous attempts.

Their opening match record stands at one win, three draws, and two losses across their CHAN history. Their sole opening victory came against Burkina Faso in 2014.

“Playing in front of our supporters gives us confidence and we are determined not to let them down,” Uganda head coach Morley Byekwaso said. “As hosts, we must give our best, knowing the fans are behind us.”

The Cranes will rely on talented 18-year-old winger Travis Mutyaba and experienced center-back Gift Fred to anchor their lines. Former national goalkeeper Dennis Onyango joins the coaching staff, bringing valuable tournament experience.

Uganda’s record against North African opposition at CHAN raises concerns. They’ve lost all three previous encounters – 2-0 to Algeria in 2011 and twice to Morocco (3-1 in 2014, 5-2 in 2020).

Algeria arrive as strong contenders after their impressive showing in the previous edition. The Fennecs reached the 2022 CHAN final without conceding a single goal throughout the tournament.

Their group stage record remains unblemished with four wins and two draws. They’ve maintained a remarkable defensive display with nine clean sheets across 12 CHAN matches.

Algeria have gone 622 minutes without conceding at CHAN, with their last goal conceded coming in the 37th minute of the 2011 third-place playoff against Sudan. Overall, they boast 7 wins, 4 draws, and just 1 loss in open play throughout their CHAN appearances.

Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra has kept a strong core from the 2022 squad, including top scorer Aimen Mahious and captain Zineddine Belaïd. “The pressure is on Uganda as hosts, but we are also here to compete at the highest level,” Bougherra said.

Algeria’s strength lies in their organization, with Ahmed Kendouci providing a creative spark in midfield. Midfielder Ayoub Ghezzala affirmed their approach: “Our main objective is to win every game, and we will give our utmost to achieve that.”

The tactical battle will likely see Uganda adopt a compact shape, relying on speed in transition. Algeria will aim to control possession and tempo with their disciplined approach. The match could hinge on set-pieces and defensive organization.

Group C is considered one of the tournament’s most competitive, also featuring Guinea, Niger, and South Africa. A win today would provide crucial momentum in the race for the two qualification spots.

Viewers can catch the action live on multiple channels: BeIN Sports, Canal+, Arryadia TV, IMG, and CAF TV, with coverage beginning shortly before the 6 p.m. kickoff.

In the overall head-to-head record beyond CHAN, Algeria holds the advantage with 7 wins to Uganda’s 5, with 4 draws. Their most recent meeting in 2024 ended in a 2-1 victory for the Fennecs.

For Algeria, this marks the third time they face a host nation at CHAN. In 2011, they drew 0-0 with Sudan in the group stage before losing 1-0 to the same team in the third-place playoff. This will also be their fifth match against East African opposition at the tournament.