|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Table of Contents
The Uganda Cranes etched their names into football history on Monday night after pulling off a dramatic late comeback to draw 3-3 with South Africa at Mandela National Stadium. The result not only electrified more than 34,000 fans in attendance but also secured Uganda’s first-ever spot in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals.
A Night of High Drama
Uganda entered their final Group C match needing at least a draw to secure qualification. The home side struck first in the 31st minute through Jude Ssemugabi, sparking celebrations across the stands.
But the joy was short-lived. South Africa’s Bafana Bafana turned the game around in the second half with three goals from Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Thabiso Kutumela, and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, leaving Uganda trailing 3-1 with only minutes to play.
Just when defeat seemed certain, the Cranes showed their resilience. In the 88th minute, Allan Okello converted a penalty to narrow the gap. Deep into stoppage time, captain Rogers Torach stepped up under immense pressure and buried another penalty, completing an unforgettable 3-3 comeback. The stadium erupted in celebration, with fans singing, waving flags, and dancing long after the final whistle.
Why This Moment Matters
This result marks a historic milestone. Uganda had never before advanced past the group stage at CHAN, often falling short despite promising performances. This time, the Cranes not only qualified but also topped Group C with seven points, finishing ahead of Algeria and South Africa, who both had six but were eliminated on goal difference.
It’s more than just progression. It is a symbol of belief, resilience, and growth in Ugandan football, fueled by a passionate home crowd and a squad determined to defy the odds.
Voices from the Camp
Head coach Morley Byekwaso hailed the team’s determination:
“Every player believed until the final whistle. Those last two penalties changed our history.”
Captain Rogers Torach described the emotional rollercoaster of the closing minutes:
“Allan’s penalty gave us hope. Scoring that final spot kick gave relief and pride. We knew we were carrying the dreams of our fans.”
What Comes Next
The Cranes will return to Mandela National Stadium on Saturday, August 23, 2025, for a quarterfinal showdown against the runners-up of Group D. If victorious, they will advance to the semifinals on August 26. Even if they fall short, a third-place playoff on August 29 will also be hosted on home soil. With home advantage, momentum, and belief on their side, Uganda now dares to dream of going deeper into the tournament.
This was more than a football match. It was a statement of resilience and a turning point for Ugandan football. From despair at 3-1 down to ecstasy with a last-gasp equalizer, the Cranes showed the power of never giving up. As the quarterfinal looms, one question remains: can the Uganda Cranes ride this wave of belief even further? The stadium belongs to them, the fans are louder than ever, and the journey continues on Saturday.
Read Also: Morocco Bounce Back with Convincing 3-1 Win Over Zambia at CHAN 2025
