Algeria’s head coach, Madjid Boughera, believes that Uganda Cranes can still advance from the group stage despite their loss in the opening game.
Uganda kickstarted the campaign with a humiliating 3-0 loss against Algeria in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Ayoub Ghezala headed the hosts ahead, Abderrhmane Meziane Ben Tahar scored the second before second-half substitute Soufine Bayazid made it three for the Desert Foxes.
“It’s the first time Uganda is hosting this tournament. Maybe the pressure was too much. But after this game, I believe they can pick themselves up,” the gaffer said.
“Uganda has some good players but I think the pressure of hosting a big tournament like this disturbed them. I believe they can wake up and do better,” he added.
Uganda has three group matches left, and each one is crucial for the co-hosts to advance beyond the group stage for the first time.
Algeria returns to action on Friday as they take on South Africa in the early kick-off before Uganda lock horns with Algeria later on at 8PM.
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