Bougherra hails Algeria's tactical masterclass against hosts Uganda
Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra credited his side's tactical discipline and superior preparation for their 3–0 demolition of hosts Uganda in the opening Group C match of the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 in Kampala.
Playing in front of a hostile crowd at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Bougherra's men silenced the home supporters 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 told journalists after the match.
Algeria's opening goal came through Ayoub Ghezala's header, before Abderrahmane Meziane doubled the advantage with a slick finish.
Soufiane Bayazid rounded off the scoring, capping a display that confirmed Algeria's status as one of the tournament's top contenders.
The statistics underscored their superiority: 55% possession, 443 completed passes, 81% pass accuracy, and five shots on target. More crucially, Algeria didn't receive a single card while Uganda picked up three — a testament to the visitors' composure.
'The difference was in the tactical approach,' Bougherra explained.
'The early end of our domestic league gave us more time to prepare. That allowed us to build cohesion in our system and work on match scenarios.'
Abderrahmane Meziane, who was named TotalEneriges Man of the Match for his goal and assist, led the offensive line with intelligence and pace, while Belhocini and Mahious kept the Ugandan defence pinned back with sharp movement.
Despite the resounding victory, Bougherra remained grounded. 'We still have work to do. Managing the space between our lines is something we'll improve. Stronger teams will try to exploit that.'
Algeria, who reached the final in the previous CHAN edition, now top Group C with three points and a strong goal difference.
They'll head into their next match with momentum and a coach determined to refine what already looks like a formidable outfit.
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