As Uganda co-hosts its first-ever African Nations Championship (CHAN), Cranes co-coach Morley Byekwaso is counting on home fans to lift the team when they face Algeria on Monday night at Mandela National Stadium.
The match is Uganda’s Group C opener and follows the day’s earlier game between Niger and Guinea. With the 2024 CHAN tournament spread across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, the spotlight is firmly on the hosts.
“We need to make history,” said Byekwaso. “It’s always easier to win at home, and we believe the fans will make a difference. The whole country is behind us.”
Uganda has never made it out of the group stage in six previous CHAN appearances. But Byekwaso says the team is ready to change that. “The goal is to progress, and the players have put in the work.”
Algeria, CHAN 2022 runners-up, arrived in Uganda on Friday. Their coach, Madjid Bougherra, says his team is focused but sees the pressure squarely on Uganda.
“Uganda has everything to prove in front of their fans,” Bougherra said. “We’ve played in big stadiums before. It won’t be easy, but we’re ready. Winning the first game sends a strong message.”
With both sides aiming for a strong start, Monday’s clash at a full Namboole promises to set the tone for Group C. Uganda is chasing history; Algeria wants redemption.
Kickoff is at 8 PM, after the Niger–Guinea match.
