Niger Holds South Africa in Tense Goalless Battle at CHAN 2024

The Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 delivered another dramatic evening of football as Niger fought bravely to secure a 0-0 draw against South Africa at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday.

High Stakes, High Pressure

Heading into the game, both sides had plenty riding on the outcome. South Africa, chasing a quarterfinal berth, were eager to pick up maximum points to strengthen their position in Group C. Niger, meanwhile, were desperate to avoid leaving the tournament without a single point after suffering defeats in their opening matches.

From the first whistle, the tension was clear. South Africa looked more composed in possession, controlling the tempo and keeping Niger pinned back in their half. But the Nigerien defense, compact and disciplined, refused to crumble.

VAR Dominates the Conversation

The real drama of the night revolved around the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). South Africa thought they had a strong case for a penalty midway through the first half when the ball struck a Niger defender inside the box. The referee initially pointed to the spot, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned.

If that wasn’t enough, stoppage time brought even more chaos. With the game still locked at 0-0, South Africa appealed again for a penalty after a tangle inside the area. Once more, VAR intervened, and once more, the verdict went against them. The double denial left South African players visibly frustrated, and their supporters stunned.

Niger Finds Defensive Rhythm

For Niger, this match was about pride and resilience. Coach Harouna Doula set up his side with a clear plan: stay organized, absorb pressure, and look to break forward when opportunities arose. It was a strategy that worked.

The backline, marshalled with determination, threw themselves into tackles and made crucial interceptions at key moments. Goalkeeper Abdoul Karim Cissé, though not tested frequently, stood tall whenever called upon, bringing confidence to the defense.

Missed Chances Haunt South Africa

While South Africa controlled possession, they struggled where it mattered most—inside the penalty area. A string of missed opportunities told the story of their night. Long balls into the box were often cleared, and shots from distance sailed harmlessly wide.

Even after making attacking substitutions in the second half to bring fresh legs and more pace, the breakthrough never came. For all their dominance, the finishing touch simply deserted them.

What the Result Means

The draw reshuffles Group C and keeps the tension alive. Uganda leads the group with six points, followed closely by South Africa and Algeria, who both sit on five, with Algeria holding the edge on goal difference. Niger, despite finally earning their first point, remains bottom of the group and faces a mountain to climb.

For South Africa, the equation is simple yet daunting: they must defeat hosts Uganda in their final group game if they are to advance. Algeria, meanwhile, only need a draw against Niger to secure their place in the knockout stage.

A Night to Remember for Niger

While they didn’t find the net, Niger’s players walked off the pitch with heads held high. After two painful defeats, this performance showed resilience, heart, and an unwillingness to give up. For South Africa, however, it was a night of frustration, VAR heartbreak, and missed opportunities that may come back to haunt them.

As the group stage nears its climax, one thing is clear—the race for the quarterfinals is wide open, and the drama is only just beginning.