Uganda endured a disappointing start to their CHAN 2024 campaign after falling to a humiliating 3-0 loss at the hands of Algeria at home at Mandela National Stadium, Kampala.

The Cranes started brightly in front of their home fans but struggled to contain Algeria’s sharp attack.

After multiple close calls, the North Africans finally broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. A well-timed header from Younes Ghezala, assisted by Bentahar Meziane, handed Algeria a deserved lead.

Despite several defensive lapses from Uganda, the Algerians couldn’t extend their advantage before the break, heading into halftime with a narrow 1-0 cushion.

Uganda looked to respond in the second half but found little success against a disciplined Algerian backline. The visitors doubled their lead in the 76th minute when Bentahar Meziane turned scorer, finishing off a neat assist from Messala Merbah to make it 2-0.

Then substitute Soufiane Bayazid sealed the victory with Algeria’s third of the evening, converting from a Mohamed Khacef pass in the 79th minute.

Meanwhile, Guinea made a perfect start to CHAN 2024 on Monday as they edged Niger 1-0 in the first game of Group C played at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.

Mohamed Bangoura’s second-half strike decided the closely contested game.