Bafana Holds Algeria To A Draw In CHAN Opener

Bafana Bafana kicked off the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 with a 1-1 draw against Algeria at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday afternoon.

Both teams started strong, with Algeria nearly scoring first through Abderrahmane Tahar, but South African goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu made a crucial save.

Algeria took the lead in the 29th minute with Abdennour Belhocini’s impressive long-range goal.

Bafana equalized just before halftime, courtesy of Thabiso Kutumela’s finish after a great assist from Menzi Masuku, set up by Malibongwe Khoza.

In the second half, Bafana dominated the early stages, creating several chances but failing to capitalize.

Coach Molefi Ntseki introduced Keagan Dolly and Fortunate Makaringe in the 65th minute to boost the attack, but it wasn’t until later substitutions, including Tebogo Tlolane, Thamsanqa Masiya, and Zakhele Lepasa in the 83rd minute, that Bafana continued to press for a winner.

Fortune Makaringe and Khoza both had opportunities to seal the win with long-range shots in the 88th and 92nd minutes, respectively, but Algeria’s goalkeeper Zakaria Bouhalfaya and the crossbar denied them.

The match ended 1-1. Bafana Bafana will now face Guinea on Monday at the same venue.