Uganda Cranes Make History: First-Ever CHAN Quarterfinal Qualification After Thrilling Draw With South Africa
- Afri Careers
- Aug 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 21
Kampala - Uganda Cranes have qualified for the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time in history after a dramatic 3-3 draw with South Africa. Discover how the Cranes topped Group C with 7 points, marking a new era in Ugandan football.
Uganda Cranes Rewrite History at CHAN
For the first time in history, the Uganda Cranes have advanced past the group stages of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), sending fans across the nation into jubilation. The Cranes’ 3-3 draw with South Africa on the final group matchday cemented their place at the top of Group C with 7 points, an achievement that had long eluded the team in previous editions of the tournament.
Why This Matters
The CHAN tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is unique because it features players who ply their trade in domestic leagues. For Uganda, this milestone is not just a footballing triumph but also a validation of the growth of the Uganda Premier League and domestic football development.
Before this edition, Uganda had featured in multiple CHAN tournaments but never managed to progress past the group stage often finishing bottom or third in their groups. The 2025 campaign, however, marks a turning point for the Cranes, fueled by discipline, resilience, and a newfound attacking edge.
Group Stage Journey: From Setback to Glory
Uganda entered the tournament with skepticism after a disappointing opening loss to Algeria. However, the Cranes bounced back with determination, winning against Guinea and Niger, and setting up a decisive final match against South Africa (Bafana Bafana).
Uganda 0–2 Algeria (Opening Match) – A shaky start raised doubts.
Uganda 2–1 Guinea – The Cranes revived hopes with a strong performance.
Uganda 2–0 Niger – Momentum shifted, putting Uganda top of the group.
Uganda 3–3 South Africa – A dramatic finale that sealed qualification.
As It Happened: Uganda vs. South Africa
The match against South Africa was nothing short of a rollercoaster:
31st Minute: Jude Ssemugabi fired Uganda into the lead, sending fans into early celebrations.
53rd Minute: Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalized for South Africa.
58th Minute: Thabiso Kutumela put Bafana Bafana ahead (2-1).
78th Minute: Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo extended South Africa’s lead to 3-1.
At that point, many Ugandan fans had begun to lose hope. Yet, the Cranes showcased their trademark resilience:
88th Minute: Allan Okello calmly converted a penalty to reduce the deficit (3-2).
90th Minute: Captain Rogers Torach stepped up to score another penalty, leveling the match at 3-3.
The late comeback ensured Uganda not only qualified but also topped the group — a testament to their never-give-up attitude.
Meanwhile, in Nairobi, Algeria and Niger drew 1-1, leaving Algeria in second place with 6 points, while South Africa and Niger bowed out.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for Uganda?
Uganda’s success means they will feature in the CHAN quarterfinals for the very first time. Beyond the numbers, this is a huge morale boost for:
Players – Many of whom play in Uganda’s local clubs like KCCA FC, Vipers SC, and Express FC.
Coaching Staff – Whose tactical adaptability has finally paid off.
Fans – Who have waited for decades to see Uganda achieve this breakthrough.
The Cranes’ resilience under pressure signals that Ugandan football is on the rise, with the possibility of deeper runs in CAF tournaments and even better prospects in AFCON qualifications.
Final Thoughts
From the early disappointment against Algeria to the thrilling fightback against South Africa, Uganda’s CHAN 2025 campaign will be remembered as the moment the Cranes broke the glass ceiling. For a nation passionate about football, this qualification is not just about advancing in a tournament — it’s about belief, growth, and the dawn of a new chapter for Ugandan football.
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