By 
South Africa launched their CHAN 2024 campaign with a determined performance, holding Group C favorites Algeria to a 1-1 draw at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala on Friday.
In a match where Algeria dominated large spells, it was Thabiso Kutumela’s clinical strike in first-half stoppage time that earned Bafana Bafana a crucial point. Algeria had earlier gone ahead through Abdennour Belhocini’s fierce low drive in the 29th minute.
The Desert Foxes looked the more likely to score throughout the match, but South Africa’s disciplined shape and defensive focus frustrated their opponents, especially in the second half.
Belhocini’s opener came after Aymen Mahious had his initial effort blocked inside the area. The rebound fell kindly for the CR Belouizdad forward, who rifled his shot beneath South African keeper Samukelo Zulu.
Despite the pressure, South Africa responded with a well-worked goal just before the break. Malibongwe Khoza launched a pinpoint diagonal ball from deep, which found Menzi Masuku in stride. Although Masuku’s first touch was heavy, the ball rolled into the path of Kutumela, who slotted home to make it 1-1.
Algeria pushed hard in the second half. In the 50th minute, Zulu pulled off an excellent save to deny Abderrahmane Meziane from close range. Seventeen minutes later, Mahious had a golden opportunity to restore Algeria’s lead but headed wide with the goal at his mercy.
The drama continued in the dying minutes when Algeria substitute Mehdi Merghem went down in the box. However, the referee saw no contact and instead booked the forward for simulation.
The result keeps Algeria top of Group C with four points from two matches, while South Africa, on one point, will take plenty of positives heading into Monday’s clash against Guinea. Algeria’s final group fixture comes against the Syli National next Friday.
