Algeria’s coach remains bullish ahead of crucial CHAN tie against Uganda
By Luke Oluoch, August 4, 2025Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra has stated that he is excited to start the opening CHAN 2024 encounter against hosts Uganda Cranes.
The clash slated for Monday, August 4, 2025, will see the North African bidding to become the first team to deprive a hosting team of a winning start.
Speaking ahead of the clash at the Mandela National Stadium this Monday, August 4, 2025, the former international affirmed that the Desert Foxes are prepared for what the Cranes will throw at them in what he predicts will be a tense clash.
“We know it will be a tough game; they will be playing for the fans. We are anticipating a tough match because Uganda will give it their all to make their fans proud. It means the spirit and level of desire and the spirit will be high, and we will need to match it,” he told FUFA.
The coach also spoke on the significance of getting a positive result in the opening clash, terming it as key to setting the tone for the team.
“I am happy to start with this kind of game. It will get you straight into the competition. To handle the competitiveness. We have to handle that; it will give us the motivation we need to continue in the game,” he stated.
Cranes will be seeking to advance past the group stages of CHAN for the first time in the competition’s history. Placed in Group C, Uganda will also face Niger and South Africa, making every match crucial for their advancement.
Money dangled
The coach’s sentiments come after the Cranes were promised a huge cash bonus ahead of their opening clash against Algeria.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Monday, August 4, 2025, revealed his intention to reward Ugandan Cranes players with at least Ksh42 million per match won in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has revealed his intention to reward Ugandan Cranes players with at least Ksh42 million per match won in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).
“Yes, 1.2bn UGX (330,000 USD) for team @UgandaCranes per match won at CHAN2024. Thank you so much, Your Excellence. The message has been delivered to the boys, and they are roaring to go,” FUFA president Moses Hassim confirmed.
Museveni’s promise to Uganda’s Cranes mirrors that made to Harambee Stars, who were also promised a lucrative cash reward by President William Ruto in a bold bid to boost the players’ morale.
The Uganda-Algeria clash will be the second clash of Match Day 3. The clash will kick off at 8:00 pm and will be preceded by a clash of Niger vs. Guinea starting at 5:00 pm.