The stage is set for a historic night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole as the Uganda Cranes stand just 90 minutes away from securing a place in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 quarterfinals.
Needing only a point against South Africa in their final Group C fixture on Monday, the Cranes are on the verge of breaking a long-standing barrier, having never progressed past the group stages in their previous six attempts.
The Cranes currently top Group C with six points, following Friday’s dramatic encounters that saw both matches end in stalemates.
Algeria 1–1 Guinea: The Syli Nationale looked set to grab a famous victory after taking the lead in the 62nd minute, but Sofiane Bayazid struck late for the Desert Foxes, ensuring Algeria moved to five points, one behind Uganda.
South Africa 0–0 Niger: In a frustrating night for Bafana Bafana, VAR denied them two penalty appeals, leaving them with just five points in third place. Niger, who are now mathematically out of contention, played spoilers with a resilient display.
The results mean Uganda sit in pole position and require only a draw against South Africa to seal qualification. Algeria face Niger in Nairobi in the group’s other fixture and a win will guarantee them qualification.
For Uganda, Monday’s game is more than just a group decider, it represents a chance to rewrite history. The Cranes have consistently stumbled at the group stage in past six CHAN editions. This time, with the support of a passionate home crowd, they are closer than ever to achieving the long-awaited breakthrough.
The Cranes will have to do without influential midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. His absence is a blow, but the Cranes are expected to rally behind their depth and the energy of the Namboole faithful.
South Africa, sitting third with five points, will throw everything into the contest, knowing that only a win guarantees them a spot in the last eight. Bafana Bafana will lean on their attacking flair and youthful energy, but their inability to break down Niger showed vulnerabilities that the disciplined Cranes can exploit.
Uganda, on the other hand, are likely to balance caution with ambition. A draw is enough, but a statement victory would stamp their authority as genuine contenders for the title.
Uganda Cranes need at least a draw to qualify (a win secures top spot).
South Africa: Must win to progress.
Algeria require victory against Niger to progress
Niger eliminated and playing for pride.
All eyes will be on Namboole as the Uganda Cranes aim to book their ticket to the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals with the roar of the home crowd behind them and history within touching distance.
