Guinea’s tactical masterclass led by Alhassane Bangoura's brilliance
Alhassane Bangoura delivered the most complete performance of the night — earning the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award for his display of tactical brilliance, attacking drive, and team leadership when Guinea won their opening match at 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Monday.
Guinea began their Group C campaign with a gritty 1–0 victory over Niger, and while it was team captain Mohamed Bangoura who scored the winner, it was Bangoura who stole the show.
The ASM Sangaredi winger, one of the standout players in the Guinean domestic league last season with 11 goals, made his mark in every phase of play.
From intelligent positioning to dangerous runs and tight ball control, Bangoura became the engine of Guinea’s attacking rhythm in a contest dominated by defensive organisation and midfield battles.
“It was a great feeling to start with a win, and the result reflects our teamwork. This award is not just mine — it belongs to the entire team. I dedicate it especially to the people of my country,” said Bangoura, visibly moved after receiving his award.
Bangoura drives Guinea from the flanks
Guinea came into the match with a tactical plan based on a 4-3-3 system that prioritises possession-based build-up and quick transitions.
With head coach Souleymane Camara known for encouraging wing play, it was no surprise that Alhassane Bangoura was at the heart of Guinea’s approach.
Operating primarily from the flanks, he consistently destabilised Niger’s defence with his pace, technical skills, and clever movement.
His ability to cut inside, combine with teammates on the move, and create numerical advantages was instrumental in Guinea’s control of wide areas.
His performance wasn’t just built on flair. Bangoura repeatedly tracked back to support the defence, dropped into midfield to collect the ball, and linked with the central attackers to disrupt Niger’s shape.
It was a complete tactical performance from a player who clearly understands his role beyond just attacking duties.
Tactical versatility and discipline key to his impact
In a match where space was at a premium and chances were limited, Bangoura’s movement between the lines helped Guinea unlock transitions and create their few real scoring opportunities.
While Mohamed Bangoura’s goal gave them the win, it was Alhassane's contribution to breaking lines and drawing defenders that set the tone for Guinea’s offense.
“He told us to believe more in ourselves and reminded us that we were capable of changing the course of the game,” Bangoura said of Coach Camara’s halftime team talk.
“The team showed determination and confidence, and as a result, the goal came naturally.”
With Guinea's defence occasionally exposed by high fullbacks, Bangoura’s tracking runs helped maintain balance, especially in moments when Niger pushed higher in the second half.
His ability to both initiate counters and delay opposing build-up gave Guinea vital control during tight stretches of the match.
Looking forward with focus and ambition
After the match, Coach Camara praised the team’s resilience and tactical discipline, while also acknowledging the areas that need refining — particularly the building phase under pressure.
Guinea's midfield sometimes struggled to connect with the front line due to Niger's high defensive positioning, but Bangoura’s link-up play repeatedly filled those gaps.
Now, all attention turns to Guinea’s next test — a showdown with tournament hosts Uganda, which could prove crucial in the race to qualify from Group C, a pool that also includes heavyweights Algeria and South Africa.
“In the next match, we’ll stay focused on getting the three points we need to move forward, while always respecting our opponents,” Bangoura added.
If Alhassane Bangoura can maintain this level of performance, he may emerge as one of CHAN 2024’s breakout stars. For now, he has already sent a clear message — Guinea’s ambitions in this tournament are real, and he intends to lead them every step of the way.