Ntseki confident as South Africa prepares for CHAN 2024 clash with Algeria
Algeria heads into the fixture full of confidence after a commanding 3–0 victory over Uganda earlier this week.
South Africa coach Molefi Ntseki during a media briefing at Namboole. PHOTO: Johnson Were
By Johnson Were
Journalists @New Vision
South Africa head coach Molefi Ntseki has promised an entertaining and competitive match when his side faces Algeria in their CHAN 2024 Group C opener on Friday, August 8 at 5 PM at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Algeria heads into the fixture full of confidence after a commanding 3–0 victory over Uganda earlier this week.
South Africa, meanwhile, begins its campaign with a squad featuring several players not currently active in the domestic league—a decision Ntseki defended during Thursday’s media briefing.
“Our group is a difficult one, with Algeria and hosts Uganda. It’s going to be tough, but we’re here to compete,” Ntseki said. “It will be an interesting game. The boys are ready for the challenge and looking forward to a strong start.”
Ntseki explained that the timing of the South African league season affected player availability, with many clubs engaged in relegation battles or title races during the selection period.
“We selected quality players who were between clubs and still looking for opportunities. I believe they’ll deliver,” he added.
South Africa captain Neo Maema echoed the coach’s optimism, emphasizing the team’s focus on results and national pride.
“For us, it’s about flying the South African flag high, entertaining our fans, and starting with a win,” Maema said.
Elsewhere in the tournament, defending champions Senegal began their Group D campaign with a narrow 1–0 win over Nigeria in Zanzibar.
The CHAN 2024 tournament, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, runs from August 2 to 30. South Africa’s next group match will be against Guinea on August 11, also at Mandela National Stadium.