KAMPALA, Uganda — In a breathtaking showdown at Mandela National Stadium, the Uganda Cranes secured their place in the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals with a thrilling 3-3 draw against South Africa, completing a dramatic comeback that will be remembered for years to come.
The hosts initially appeared to be in control when Jude Ssemugabi opened the scoring in the 31st minute, capitalizing on a slick counterattack initiated by a precise pass from Patrick Kakande.
Uganda carried a 1-0 lead and high confidence into halftime.
South Africa’s crushing response
The Bafana Bafana emerged from the break with renewed determination. Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalized in the 52nd minute with a strike that was confirmed after a VAR check.
Just six minutes later, Thabiso Kutumela found the net from a tight angle, giving South Africa a 2-1 lead.
Moments of calm were few, and Uganda’s hopes seemed to be crushed in the 83rd minute when Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo unleashed a stunning effort from outside the box to make it 3-1.
Late-game drama
However, the Cranes refused to yield. The drama began in the 88th minute when Uganda was awarded a penalty following a challenge on Ivan Ahimbisibwe.
Allan Okello stepped up with nerves of steel and calmly slotted the ball home, bringing the score to 3-2.
Also Read: Morocco defeat DR Congo 3-1 to reach CHAN 2024 quarter-finals, join hosts Kenya
The climax arrived deep in stoppage time.
A VAR review confirmed a handball in the South African box, leading to a second penalty for Uganda.
Captain Rogers Torach took the crucial spot-kick and calmly converted it in the 96th minute, sparking wild celebrations and sealing Uganda’s place in the knockout stage.
Group outcome
With Algeria and Niger drawing 0-0 in Nairobi, Uganda finished Group C at the top of the table with seven points.
This put them ahead of both Algeria and South Africa, who each ended the group stage with six points.
Quarter-final fixtures
Friday, 22 August 2025
- 17:00 – Kenya v Madagascar (Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi)
- 20:00 – Tanzania v Morocco (Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam)
Saturday, 23 August 2025
- 17:00 – Winners Group D v Algeria (Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar)
- 20:00 – Uganda v Runners-up Group D (Mandela National Stadium, Kampala)