Ntseki hails pride and discipline as South Africa hold Algeria
South Africa coach Molefi Ntseki says playing at the Mandela National Stadium was “a source of pride” for his team, after they earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Algeria in their opening CHAN 2024 match.
Ntseki’s side showed resilience against a North African team that had started the tournament strongly, and he praised his players’ commitment both on and off the ball.
“It was an important match against a team who started the tournament well. Our players showed dedication and commitment. Tactically, we were sound, though we had some anxious moments,” he said.
Bougherra proud of fighting spirit
Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra was also quick to commend his squad, admitting fatigue was a factor but stressing the importance of qualification over performance.
“The team showed some fatigue, but the most important thing is qualification. I am very proud of my players – they showed bravery and fought hard.”
Tactical mirror match
Both sides set up in identical 4-2-3-1 formations, a choice that produced a tactical stalemate for much of the contest.
Algeria struck first through Abdennour Belhocini on 29 minutes, but Thabiso Kutumela equalised for South Africa just before the break to restore parity.
Fine margins in Kampala
The statistics reflected the evenly matched nature of the game.
South Africa saw slightly more of the ball, enjoying 53% possession and completing 390 passes at 85% accuracy.
Algeria, however, created more goal attempts with 14 shots compared to South Africa’s seven, four of which were on target.
Discipline was tight, with only 17 fouls and three yellow cards – one for Algeria and two for South Africa – and no red cards.
Respect for opponents
Ntseki acknowledged Algeria’s enduring football identity, regardless of who is in the dugout.
“Algeria have their own football identity and culture. It doesn’t matter who is coaching, the team’s identity is clear. Congratulations to the entire Algeria team.”
He also expressed gratitude for the welcome his squad received.
“We were warmly welcomed by the fans and playing in a stadium named after Nelson Mandela is a source of pride. We are proud of the way the team presented itself.”
Group C still alive
This was the first meeting between the two nations since Algeria’s 3-1 victory at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
The result keeps Algeria top of Group C with four points from two matches, while South Africa open their campaign with a valuable point.
Algeria need just a draw in their final fixture to progress, while South Africa must beat Uganda and hope other results or goal difference work in their favour.
With all three teams still in contention, Group C’s closing round promises a tense battle for quarter-final spots.
