CHAN 2024 co-hosts Uganda endured a nightmare start to their campaign, falling 3-0 to a clinical Algerian side in their opening Group C clash on Monday.
Roared on by home support, Uganda began with early promise but were soon outclassed by a more organized and potent Algerian outfit.
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Younes Ghezala rose highest to nod home a pinpoint cross from Bentahar Meziane, giving Algeria a deserved lead before halftime.
Uganda tried to rally after the break, but Algeria’s rock-solid defense left them chasing shadows.
The North Africans struck again in the 76th minute as Meziane turned scorer, latching onto a clever pass from Messala Merbah to make it 2-0.
The result was put beyond doubt just three minutes later when substitute Soufiane Bayazid slotted in Algeria’s third, finishing calmly after being teed up by Mohamed Khacef.
Meanwhile, in the group’s other encounter, Guinea edged Niger Republic 1-0 to claim all three points.
With the first round of fixtures completed in Group C, Algeria lead the standings on goal difference ahead of Guinea, both on three points.
Niger Republic and Uganda trail in third and fourth respectively, still without a point.