Guinea and Niger ended Friday’s CHAN action at the Namboole Mandela National Stadium in Kampala with contrasting results as the group stage moves toward its wrap.
Guinea were held to a 1-1 draw by Algeria. Ismaël Camara gave Guinea the lead in the 62nd minute after a goalless first half, firing home from outside the box to nestle the ball in the bottom left corner. Algeria responded late, Sofiane Bayazid bundling in a scrappy equaliser in the 88th minute to save a point. Despite dominating possession, passing and shooting, Guinea could not find a winner and finished the match with a point that left them on four points from four games. They exit the tournament in fourth place in Group C.
In the other match, Niger and South Africa played to a goalless stalemate. The Bafana Bafana pressed for opportunities but were unable to convert, leaving both teams with a share of the spoils as they look to their remaining group games.
Standings and outlook
– Guinea sit fourth in Group C with four points from four fixtures.
– Niger remain at the bottom of the group with one point after drawing this match and having suffered two losses.
– South Africa are on five points, level with Algeria, but Algeria hold the advantage on goal difference.
– Uganda lead the group following their own results, with a slim margin heading into the final round of matches.
What to watch next
Niger face Algeria in their final group game, aiming to finish with pride after a challenging campaign. South Africa and Algeria’s remaining fixtures will determine who tops the group alongside Uganda, while Guinea will be hoping for a consolation win to end their campaign on a positive note.
Commentary
Both matches showcased the high-intensity style typical of CHAN, with home-based players striving to make their mark on Africa’s regional showcase. Guinea’s late equaliser against Algeria demonstrated resilience, but their group exit underscores how tight the standings have been this campaign. Niger’s continued pursuit of a first group-stage win will be a focal point as they prepare for their last outing, while South Africa will need results to keep their hopes alive in the title race.
Summary
Two draws on Friday left Guinea eliminated from Group C with four points, Niger rooted at the bottom on one point, and South Africa and Algeria level on five as Uganda pressed ahead at the top. The final round promises more drama as teams jockey for positions and qualification spots.