Uganda Cranes humiliated in 3-0 defeat to Algeria at CHAN opener
Uganda’s hopes of a strong start at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) were dashed on Monday night, as the Cranes suffered a crushing 3-0 loss to Algeria at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
A subdued atmosphere hung over the stadium as fans watched their team struggle to gain a foothold in the match. The early stages were cagey, with both teams cautiously probing for openings. But it was Algeria who gradually took control, finding joy down the right flank through the lively combination of Abdennour Belhocini and Zakaria Draoui.
From the outset, Uganda looked unsettled particularly in midfield where Algeria’s high press disrupted the Cranes’ rhythm. Joel Sserunjogi showed glimpses of control, trying to pull strings in the middle of the park, but Uganda’s occasional forward bursts failed to translate into clear chances.
The breakthrough came in the 35th minute. A lapse in concentration at the back allowed Ayoub Ghezala to sneak in and slot home, putting the Desert Foxes ahead just before halftime, a lead they fully deserved.
Looking to turn things around, Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso made an immediate change at the break, bringing on Karim Watambala for Jude Ssemugabi. The switch injected much-needed urgency. Allan Okello moved wide to stretch the play, while Watambala added energy in midfield. The Cranes pushed higher up the pitch, and nearly found an equalizer in the 63rd minute when Watambala’s thunderous strike flew just inches past the post.
But the fightback was short-lived.
In the 76th minute, Algeria struck again. Kenneth Odong’s failure to clear a routine aerial ball allowed Meziane Abderrahmane to pounce and double the lead with a sharp finish. Three minutes later, substitute Soufiane Beyazid made it 3-0, capitalizing on a sloppy turnover and coolly slotting into an empty net.
Despite further substitutions and a brief push from the home side, the Cranes couldn’t find a way back. Algeria managed the closing minutes with ease, exposing Uganda’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of cutting edge in the final third.
The defeat leaves Uganda bottom of Group B, with a mountain to climb if they are to keep their CHAN hopes alive. Their next match is on Friday, August 8, against Guinea who began their campaign with a win over Niger. It’s now a must-win encounter for Byekwaso’s men.
