Former Orlando Pirates stars combine well to rescue Bafana Bafana against Algeria in 2024 CHAN opener

Algeria were a threat with powerful shots and it paid off when Abdennour Belhicini struck from outside the box to give Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu no chance and hand the Desert Foxes a 29th-minute lead. 

But Molefi Ntseki's side hit back on the stroke of halftime when Thabiso Kutumela finished a Menzi Msuku feed.

The North Africans had better chances in the second half with Aimen Mahious coming close twice, but failed to utilise the opportunities as South Africa held on and managed to avert danger. 

A scary moment for Bafana was witnessed deep in stoppage time when Medhi Merghem appeared to have been fouled by Thamsanqa Masiya to leave the Algerians protesting for a penalty which the referee denied to hand them.

After gaining a point from this 1-1 draw, South Africa would be keen to build on that going forward as Algeria maintain Group C lead with four points from two games 

Ndlondlo was outstanding for South Africa and invested his all in midfield with his box-to-box display.

However, Algeria forward Mahious almost stole the show from the former Orlando Pirates star.  

For a team laden with experienced players, including a 35-year-old Ramahlwe Mphahlele and the much-travelled Kwanda Mngonyama, expectations were high for South Africa. 

But they struggled to live up to their billing against an Algerian side wth younger players. 

Although back at CHAN finals for the first time in 12 years, Ntseki has at his disposal seasoned stars who are battle-hardened to even win this tournament. 

Ntseki and his men will be back at the Mandela National Stadium on Monday when they will try to recover as they face Guinea.   

Algeria will have a long break from competitive football and will only return next Friday to take on Guinea and they seek to top this group.