Algeria held by South Africa in CHAN Group C thriller

Kampala, Uganda — Algeria head coach Madjid Bougherra and his players were left furious at full-time after a controversial refereeing decision denied them a potential match-winning penalty in their 1–1 draw with South Africa at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Friday.

In stoppage time, Algerian forward Aimen Mahious appeared to be brought down in the box by a South African defender, but Ivorian referee Clement Franklin waved play on. The decision sparked heated protests from the Algerian bench, resulting in yellow cards for several players.

The match was a tightly contested affair between two strong Group C contenders. Algeria, fresh off a 3–0 win over Uganda, were aiming to secure six points and top the table. South Africa, playing their first match of the tournament, were equally determined to start on a high.

Algeria struck first in the 28th minute through Abdennour Belhocini, but South Africa responded just before halftime with a well-taken goal from Thabiso Kutumela.

The second half remained competitive, with both sides pushing for a winner. South Africa enjoyed vocal support from Ugandan fans, many of whom backed Bafana Bafana in response to Algeria’s earlier win over the Cranes.

As it stands, Algeria leads Group C with four points, followed by Guinea with three. South Africa sits third with one point, while Niger and Uganda remain without a point. Only the top two teams will advance to the quarterfinals.

South Africa 's Kwandakwensizwa Mngonyama (left) tackles Algeria's Aimen Mahious during a CHAN Group C match at Namboole, August 8 2025. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Algeria's Aimen Ahious (right) beats South Africa 's Kwandakweswiza Mngonyama during a CHAN Group C match at Namboole, August 8 2025. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Algeria's Abdennour Iheb Belhocini celebrates his goal against South Africa during a CHAN Group C match at Namboole.Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Algeria's Abdennour Iheb Belhocini celebrates his goal against South Africa with Aimen Mahious (left) during a CHAN Group C match at Namboole. Photo by Michael Nsubuga