CHAN 2025: Algeria vs South Africa — Match preview, predictions, and key insights
Clash in Kampala: Algeria & South Africa Battle for CHAN 2025 Supremacy
The 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) is heating up, and today’s Group C clash between Algeria and South Africa promises to be one of the tournament’s most intriguing fixtures. Both teams are chasing crucial points — Algeria aiming to strengthen their top spot after a confident start, and South Africa determined to upset the favourites and announce themselves as serious contenders. This match has all the ingredients of a tactical battle, with high stakes and continental pride on the line.
Match Details — Time & Venue
Kick-off is set for Friday, 8 August 2025, at 17:00 local time (Kampala, Uganda) at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium. In South Africa, that’s 16:00 CAT, and in Algeria, 15:00. Fans can tune in live via SuperSport, beIN Sports, and CAF’s broadcast partners depending on region.
Team News
Algeria arrive with momentum from their opening win and a solid 26-man squad selected by coach Madjid Bougherra. Known for his tactical discipline, Bougherra has built a balanced side with a rock-solid defence and sharp counter-attacking options. His core is drawn from top domestic sides like MC Alger and CR Belouizdad, giving the team cohesion and experience.
South Africa, under Molefi Ntseki, have assembled a 25-man squad with a blend of domestic league regulars and ambitious free agents. The side may lack the star power of Algeria, but their work ethic and tactical discipline could make them dangerous. Ntseki has stressed mental resilience and making the most of set-pieces to trouble the North Africans.
Key Players to Watch
For Algeria, Aymen Mahious stands out as the main goal threat, supported by creative midfielders capable of unlocking defences. Their defensive line, marshalled by experienced centre-backs, has been near-impenetrable in recent CHAN matches.
For South Africa, Neo Maema will be crucial in dictating tempo and launching attacks, while the likes of Zakhele Lepasa bring pace and directness to the forward line.
Head-to-Head & Recent Form
Historically, matches between these two nations have been closely contested, with draws and narrow wins dominating the record. Algeria’s recent CHAN form is impressive, built on multiple clean sheets and efficient attacking play. South Africa, while less consistent, have shown they can rise to big occasions — their challenge will be sustaining intensity for 90 minutes.
Tactical Battle
Expect Algeria to set up compact and structured, drawing South Africa forward before striking with quick counters. South Africa’s best chance lies in controlling midfield and exploiting the flanks, using width to stretch the Algerian defence. Set-pieces could be the game-changer, especially if Bafana Bafana can deliver with precision.
Prediction
On form and squad depth, Algeria enter as favourites. A likely outcome is a 1–0 or 2–1 win for Algeria, though a 1–1 draw is possible if South Africa stay disciplined and take their chances.
Broadcast Info
Live coverage will be on SuperSport, beIN Sports, and CAF’s other regional partners. International fans should check local listings for CHAN broadcast rights.
