KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Cranes secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Niger in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday. The win propelled Uganda to the top of Group C with six points, two points clear of Algeria and South Africa, who have both played one game less.
The match began with early opportunities for Uganda, including a glancing header from midfielder Enock Ssebagala that went just wide in the 14th minute.
The breakthrough came after VAR intervention, which confirmed a foul on Reagan Mpande in the box.
Allan Okello stepped up to take the penalty, and after his initial shot was saved, he was quick to react and head in the rebound, giving Uganda a 1-0 lead in the 25th minute.
Minutes later, Jude Ssemugabi had a golden chance to extend the lead but shot wide after being set up by Karim Watambala.
The Cranes doubled their advantage ten minutes into the second half when Joel Sserunjogi expertly finished a pass from Allan Okello.
The midfielder’s powerful strike found the back of the net, solidifying Uganda’s control of the game. However, the victory was tempered by an injury to midfielder Enock Ssebagala, who was replaced by Elvis Ngonde.
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With this crucial win, Uganda is now well-positioned in Group C. The team will return to action on Monday, August 18, to face South Africa in their final group stage match.
A positive result in that game would secure a place for the Uganda Cranes in the next round of the tournament.
Match lineups:
Uganda XI: Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Herbert Achai, Jude Ssemugabi, Rogers Torach, Reagan Mpande, Hillary Mukundane, Allan Okello, Gavin Kizito, Joel Sserunjogi, Enock Ssebagala, Karim Watambala.
Niger XI: Mahamadou Tandja Djibrilla Kassali, Adamou Ibrahim, Mohamed Papa, Ridouane Assane, Abdoul Kader, Chamsoudine Loukoumane, Hassane Harouna, Abdourahamane Djibo, Mohamed Abdourahamane, Nourou Yacouba, Abdoul Latif.
