The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 got off to a difficult start for hosts Uganda, as the Cranes succumbed to a humbling 3-0 defeat against Algeria in their opening Group C encounter. Speaking after the match, Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso candidly admitted his side “buckled under pressure,” revealing significant mental and tactical shortcomings that led to their comprehensive loss in front of their home fans.
From the outset, Uganda appeared outclassed, struggling to counter Algeria’s sharp attacking play and compact structure. The defensive organization crumbled early, with Ayoub Ghezala scoring from a set-piece. Subsequent goals from Abderrahmane Meziane and Soufiane Bayazid compounded the Cranes’ misery.
“We came in to give our best, but we failed in our defensive block and paid the price,” Byekwaso stated, highlighting the immediate tactical failure. His deeper concern, however, was the mental fragility of his squad. “The team was anxious. We couldn’t launch transitions, and the pressure was a decisive factor in the loss.”
The emotional impact of conceding early was evident. “After the first goal, we collapsed emotionally. We missed chances, lost the ball cheaply, and failed to manage the game,” the coach admitted. He pointed out glaring issues across the pitch, despite believing in his players’ inherent quality. Tactical deficiencies included a struggle in transition, losing aerial duels despite having a tall squad, and a severe lack of midfield control. “The midfield lacked control, and we were too stretched. We need to tighten up and keep things simple,” he explained, emphasizing the inability to retain possession under pressure.
Despite the disastrous start, Byekwaso remains pragmatic, insisting the tournament is not over. With two crucial group games remaining, he believes qualification is still possible, but only if “we correct our flaws quickly.”
“We’ll talk to the players. We need more control of the game and must strengthen the midfield. We still have two matches to show our real character,” he affirmed, signalling an urgent need for mental recovery and tactical adjustments ahead of their critical second match.
Meanwhile, Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra painted a picture of calm confidence and superior execution. His side’s 3-0 demolition of the hosts was, for him, a testament to their “tactical discipline and superior preparation.”
Playing in a potentially hostile environment at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Bougherra’s men silenced the home crowd with a well-orchestrated performance marked by controlled possession, clinical finishing, and a dynamic attacking trio. “It was a good win. The result reflects the work this group has put in. It wasn’t easy — we were playing away, under pressure — but we dominated technically and tactically,” Bougherra remarked.
Algeria’s opening goal came through Ayoub Ghezala’s header, before Abderrahmane Meziane doubled the advantage with a slick finish and was later named TotalEnergies Man of the Match for his goal and assist. Soufiane Bayazid rounded off the scoring, capping a display that confirmed Algeria’s status as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Their statistical dominance underscored their control: 55% possession, 443 completed passes with 81% accuracy, and five shots on target. Notably, they remained card-free while Uganda picked up three, showcasing their composure. Bougherra attributed this success partly to their domestic league’s early conclusion, which provided more time for cohesion and tactical build-up.
As Algeria basks in the comfort of three early points and a commanding performance, Uganda faces a critical juncture in their CHAN campaign. The Cranes must swiftly regroup, address their admitted mental and tactical shortcomings, and deliver a vastly improved performance in their next match, or risk an early and disappointing exit from a tournament played on home soil.
