Uganda secured a historic place in the quarterfinals of CHAN 2024 after a dramatic 3-3 draw against South Africa at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. This result allows the Cranes to advance as group leaders for the first time in CHAN history, while South Africa is eliminated despite its solid performance.

Uganda secures qualification

Needing only a draw to advance, Uganda took the lead in the first half thanks to Jude Ssemugabi, who scored after an assist from Patrick Kakande. The home team maintained control, showing calm and tactical discipline.

South Africa responds but Uganda fights back

South Africa fought back in the second half, equalizing through Ramahlwe Mphahlele and taking the lead with goals from Thabiso Kutumela and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo. The visitors looked set for a big turnaround, but Uganda's resilience proved decisive.

In the final minutes, Uganda was awarded two penalties. Allan Okello converted the first to make it 3-2, and Rogers Torach scored the equalizer in the 96th minute, confirming Uganda's qualification and sparking celebrations among the fans.

Group C decided

Uganda leads Group C with 7 points, Algeria is second with 6, and South Africa also finishes with 6 but is eliminated on goal difference. Guinea and Niger are eliminated. Uganda celebrates its first advance to the round of 16 in CHAN, with expectations set on the challenges ahead.