Uganda clinched a historic place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship PAMOJA 2024 after a thrilling 3-3 draw with South Africa at the Mandela National Stadium on Monday night. The packed stadium of 34,194 fans erupted as the Cranes sealed their spot as group winners for the first time in CHAN history.
Needing only a draw to advance, Uganda started strongly. Jude Ssemugabi put the cranes ahead in the 31st minute, firing home from Patrick Kakande’s counter-attack assist. The Cranes carried their lead into the break and appeared in control, but the second half quickly turned into a rollercoaster of emotion.
South Africa came out with renewed energy. Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalised after a VAR review in the 52nd minute before Thabiso Kutumela gave the visitors a 2-1 lead six minutes later. Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo then stunned the crowd with a powerful strike from outside the box in the 83rd minute to make it 3-1, putting South Africa on the verge of an incredible turnaround.
But the Cranes refused to give in. Ivan Ahimbisibwe won a penalty in the 86th minute, which Allan Okello calmly converted to reduce the deficit. Then, deep in stoppage time with eight minutes added on, Uganda won a second penalty. Rogers Torach stepped up in the 96th minute to slot home, sparking wild celebrations as the Cranes secured the draw they needed to advance.
The result left Uganda top of Group C with seven points, one ahead of Algeria, who finished on six. South Africa also ended with six points but fell short on goal difference. Guinea and Niger exited the competition.
For Uganda, who had never reached the CHAN knockouts in seven previous attempts, this marked a landmark achievement. Algeria progress as runners-up to join the Cranes in the last eight, while South Africa were left to reflect on a campaign that ended in heartbreak despite scoring three goals.
The match also highlighted the contrast between statistics and reality. South Africa dominated possession with 55 percent and completed 303 passes at 80 percent accuracy compared to Uganda’s 214 passes at 70 percent. Yet it was Uganda’s composure under pressure that won the day, holding their nerve to convert two crucial penalties in the final minutes.
South Africa coach Molefi Ntseki admitted mixed emotions after the match. “We scored three goals and created chances but in the end we dropped points that were practically in our hands. I am proud of my players’ effort, but it is bitter to leave the tournament at this stage.”
Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso breathed a sigh of relief. “We lost our first game and it was a sad moment. But we kept believing. Today we are through to the next stage. The players showed character and courage under pressure.” Byekwaso singled out his captain’s leadership during the decisive penalties as key to their success.
