Latest news with #Fennecs
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Record-breaking Algeria lay down a marker with blistering start to CHAN 2024
Algeria shattered tournament records and reignited their continental dream with a ruthless 3-0 dismantling of hosts Uganda on Tuesday night, kicking off their 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign in record-breaking style. In front of a stunned home crowd at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, the Fennecs put on a masterclass in efficiency and tactical discipline, extending their unbeaten CHAN run to seven matches and astonishingly stretching their clean sheet streak to 712 minutes — the longest in the history of the competition. The commanding victory — thanks to goals from captain Ayoub Ghazala, Rahmane Meziane and Sofiane Bayazid — sent a chilling message to the rest of the continent: Algeria are back, and this time, they intend to finish the job they narrowly missed out on in the last edition. Redemption Mission Begins with a Roar For head coach Madjid Bougherra, this was more than just three points. It was the first step toward redemption after Algeria's heartbreaking loss to Senegal in the 2022 CHAN final on home soil — a defeat sealed by penalties after a goalless draw. "We came here with one goal: to bring the trophy home," said Bougherra. "The players executed the plan brilliantly. It wasn't an easy match — Uganda had the fans behind them — but our team stayed calm, organised, and focused." What makes this result even more significant is that Algeria became the first side in CHAN history to keep seven consecutive clean sheets, surpassing their own previous run of six set in the 2022 tournament. The last time Algeria conceded in this competition was back in 2011, against Sudan — a staggering 14 years ago. Meziane Reaches CHAN Milestone as New Stars Emerge Winger Rahmane Meziane continued his love affair with CHAN football by netting his seventh career goal in the tournament — putting him within touching distance of teammate Aymen Mahious' record nine-goal tally. "I lost a tooth today, but it was worth it," joked Meziane, who was named Player of the Match by tournament sponsors TotalEnergies. "Every goal, every match, means something special. We're building momentum." But the headlines weren't just about the veterans. 22-year-old Bilal Boukershaoui, making his CHAN debut, dazzled fans and pundits alike with his maturity and energy, while Adam Alilet was a rock at the back, reinforcing Algeria's growing reputation as the best defensive unit in African football. Uganda Left Searching for Answers The result left Uganda shell-shocked. Backed by a raucous home crowd and brimming with optimism, the Cranes were second-best throughout and now face a daunting path to qualification in a highly competitive Group C. 'We struggled to find rhythm,' admitted Uganda coach Charles Lukwago. 'They were better in every department. But we will regroup and come back stronger.' Bougherra's Algeria Eye History With only their third participation in CHAN (after 2011 and 2022), Algeria have made no secret of their ambition to finally lift the trophy. In their first appearance in 2011, they reached the semi-finals. In 2022, they were runners-up. Now, in 2024, anything less than gold will be seen as a missed opportunity. "This is just the beginning," Bougherra said. "The real work starts now." Algeria's journey continues in their next group match, but their performance in Kampala will live long in the memory — not just for the scoreline, but for the records broken and the intent shown. If this is how Algeria begin, the rest of Africa has every reason to be on alert. 🟢 CHAN 2024 – Algeria's Historic Streaks So Far: ✅ 7 consecutive CHAN matches unbeaten (2022–2025) 🧤 712 minutes without conceding a goal in CHAN ⚽ Meziane now on 7 CHAN goals (2 behind record-holder Mahious) 🌍 Only 3rd CHAN participation – but already with 2 semi-finals and 1 final 🧱 Clean sheets in all group stage matches in last two editions
CAF
3 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Meziane shines through pain as Algeria power past Uganda
Algeria's Abderrahmane Meziane lost a tooth but won a nation's admiration after a stellar performance in their 3–0 win over Uganda in the opening Group C clash at the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN). The CR Belouizdad winger scored one and inspired many more as Algeria launched their CHAN 2024 campaign in dominant style, underlining their ambition to go all the way in this year's tournament. A bloody grin and a goal to remember Despite taking a knock that cost him a tooth during the match, Meziane shrugged off the pain to produce a commanding display. 'Our opponents played well. I lost a tooth, but the enthusiasm was there, and thanks to God everything went very well,' Meziane said, smiling through the battle scars after being named TotalEnergies Man of the Match. The 30-year-old netted Algeria's second of the night in the 38th minute — a cool finish that capped off a sweeping move down the left flank — and was a constant menace throughout, using his pace and sharp movement to stretch Uganda's defence. Leading by example Meziane's influence went well beyond the scoresheet. His vision, tight control, and ability to create space between the lines made him the heartbeat of Algeria's attacking play. His recent form for club side CR Belouizdad has been impressive, with 7 goals in 29 matches during the 2023/24 campaign, and 2 goals and 5 assists in 10 games so far this season — a sign of his continued impact in domestic football. 'The first game is always difficult,' he noted. 'But we'll keep moving forward, chasing better results to keep our hopes alive. Each game will write its own story. We're here until the end.' That quiet determination has come to symbolise Algeria's tournament mindset — calculated, aggressive, and unyielding. Fennecs off to a flying star Algeria's comprehensive win at CHAN 2024's Group C opener was also marked by goals from centre-back Ayoub Ghezala, who powered home a header to break the deadlock, and Soufiane Bayazid, who sealed the result with a well-placed strike in the second half. The Fennecs were tactically compact and ruthlessly efficient, keeping Uganda at bay while showcasing depth in their attacking options. Coach Abdelhak Benchikha will be pleased not just with the scoreline, but with the cohesion and fluidity shown by his squad — hallmarks of a team already in sync. Algeria eyeing deep tournament run Group C is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the tournament, with Uganda, Algeria, South Africa and Uganda all chasing a single qualification spot. Algeria's next match will be a key test of consistency, but if Meziane maintains his current level, he could well become one of the tournament's defining figures. Having reached the final in 2022 but falling short, the Fennecs appear determined to go one better in 2024 — and Meziane's battle-hardened brilliance could lead the way.
Morocco World
3 days ago
- Sport
- Morocco World
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. Read also: CHAN 2024: Morocco Beat Angola in Solid Start for the Atlas Lions Tags: African Nations Championship (CHAN)AlgeriaCHAN 2024Uganda
Yahoo
26-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
World Cup 2026 (Q): Guinea to host Algeria in Casablanca, Morocco
Syli National relocates its showdown with the Fennecs for matchday 8 of the qualifiers. World Cup 2026 (Q): Guinea to host Algeria in Casablanca, Morocco Guinea will take on Algeria on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the Mohammed V Complex in Casablanca as part of matchday 8 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The match has been relocated to Morocco due to the unavailability of the Conakry stadium. Guinea is once again forced to play its home matches outside its borders due to ongoing infrastructure issues. The Conakry stadium failed to receive approval from the Confederation of African Football, as it does not meet the standards required for official competitions. As a result, Feguifoot has officially announced that this clash will take place in Morocco, after considering Abidjan and then Tunis as alternatives. The Syli National will host Algeria on September 8 on the pitch of Casablanca's Mohammed V Complex. Before this pivotal match, Guinea will face Somalia on September 5 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, while Algeria will host Botswana. Currently fifth in Group G with 7 points, Guinea must win these games to keep their qualification hopes alive.
BBC News
19-07-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Ghana prepare for Algeria showdown for 2024 Wafcon quarterfinal
Di black queens of Ghana go face di Fennecs of Algeria for ogbonge quarterfinal game on Saturday, 19 July. Ghana finish second for Group C afta dem thrash Tanzania 4-1 for di last group game to qualify for di knockout stage for di first since 2016. Di black queens bin reach di final for di Wafcon (1998, 2002 and 2006) but since dem di team bin dey blow hot and cold. Dem comot di group stage for 2008, 2010, 2014 and 2018 for dia home. Di team now bin dey desperate to reach di final, but dem gatz conquer Algeria wey be first timers for dis stage. Di fennecs bin progress to dis stage afta dem play goalless draw wit Nigeria for dia last group game. Dem neva concede goal so far for di Wafcon; dem win 1-0 v Botswana and 0-0 wit Tunisia. Dia keeper Chloe N'Gazi wey dem name as di best goalkeeper for di group stages bin dey solid for dem so far. Dia na crunch time for both teams, afta Nigeria sama Zambia 5-0 to profess to di semifinal. Host nation Morocco na di oda kontri wey don scatter dia opponent to reach di semifinals. Di Atlas lionesses sama Mali 3-1, wia sabi pipo tok say dem bi one of di favourites for dis Wafcon. Wetin Ghana and Algeria coaches tok Algeria coach Farid Benstiti dey aware of di ogbonge game wey dey ahead wit Ghana, and e get confidence. "Dis na our first time for di quarterfinal, we sabi Ghana, dem be strong team but just like di group stage, we go try to do our best." Benstiti add say "anytin dey possible for football, I tink Ghana dey close to Nigeria, dem dey athletic but we wan prove say we deserve to be in di quarterfinal." "We bin respect Ghana but we go try to win di game." But dia coach get one headache- di fennecs na di team wit di lowest shot conversion rate among di quarterfinal teams wit 4.17%. Dem neva get even one shot on target for dia game against Nigeria wia dem only score one goal for di group stage from 13 shots. Coach Benstiti admit say tins bin dey tough but di team go do beta. "Na true tin say we bin score only one goal, but we still get di same target (to qualify for di next stage)." "For dis quarterfinal, na 50/50 game, we gat to be more efficient than Ghana, we go continue to attack," Benstiti tok for pre-match press conference. But for Ghana coach Kim Lars Björkegren, di black queens gat to maintain dia form from di last game. Kim Lars Björkegren tok say "Algeria na good team for defence, wia dem gat ogbonge goalkeeper. We go make tins difficult for her." "We no fit dey shoot from 45 yards and expect to score her, we gat to create beta chances and take dem all." Kim Lars Björkegren add say "di game na difficult game but I dey sure say we go play good game against dem." Key players and wetin dem tok Algeria goalkeeper Chloe N'Gazi na ogbonge player for dem wey she go be key player. She tok say "we go try to reach di semifinals. Dis na ogbonge responsibility for us. We neva go make anitin bother us." She bin keep clean sheet for di three group games. Na so dem bin name her as di best goalkeeper for di group stage; ahead of di reigning goalkeeper of di year Chiamaka Nnandozie from Nigeria. But she go dey tested for dis game versus Ghana, but she dey confident. Anoda player wey bin dey key for di fennecs na Ghoutia Karchouni. Di 30-year-old na di player wey score dia only goal for di tournament so far v Botswana to win only dia third nations cup game in 11 years. She say she go try to help di team for dis ogbonge match. For di black queens, dem go hope say dia key players - Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah wey bin win woman of di match for dia last game, go turn up. Also di coach expect midfielder Jennifer Cudjoe and captain Portia Boakye to dey in form. Ghana also bin dey welcome striker Doris Boaduwaa from suspension afta she miss di last game. Princella Adubea wey replace Doris against Tanzania bin play well wey she score one goal, but she bin hurt bifor di game end. So Doris gat di chance to start against Algeria. Di game go happun at 4PM GMT (5PM WAT) for di stade municipal de Berkane. Join us for di live text commentary for dis ogbonge game. Algeria go make history ? Or Ghana go qualify for di semifinal ? Make una join us make we find out ..
