Uganda Cranes wrote a new chapter in their football history after holding South Africa to a gripping 3-3 draw at a packed Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday night, a result that secured their first-ever qualification to the CHAN quarter-finals on its 7th attempt.

Early Promise

Needing only a draw to progress, Uganda took control of the game when Jude Ssemugabi latched onto Patrick Kakande’s clever pass and slotted home in the 31st minute.

The Cranes looked composed and carried their narrow lead into the break, seemingly on course for a comfortable evening.

South Africa, however, turned the contest on its head after halftime. A VAR-reviewed finish from Ramahlwe Mphahlele in the 52nd minute levelled matters, before Thabiso Kutumela’s angled strike in the 58th minute put Bafana Bafana ahead. The momentum was firmly with the visitors, and when Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo unleashed a thunderbolt from distance in the 83rd minute, South Africa were 3-1 up and on the brink of a famous win. But Uganda refused to give in. Ivan Ahimbisibwe earned a penalty just three minutes later after being fouled inside the box, and Allan Okello converted coolly to spark a dramatic late surge. 

With the fourth official signalling eight minutes of added time, the Cranes pressed desperately.

Group C Shake-Up

Uganda topped Group C with seven points, edging Algeria (six points) into second place. South Africa also finished on six but were undone by goal difference, while Guinea (four points) and Niger (two points) exited the tournament.

Uganda Cranes starting X1 

Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Gavin Kizito, Herbert Achai, Rogers Torach, Hillary Mukundane, Karim Watambala, Enock Ssebaggala, Patrick Jonah Kakande, Allan Okello, Reagan Mpande, Jude Ssemugabi

by ChimpReports