CHAN: Uganda poised for historic breakthrough as they face South Africa

The Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, is braced for a historic night as the Uganda Cranes edge closer to rewriting their story at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

Needing just a single point from their final Group C fixture against South Africa on Monday, the Cranes are 90 minutes away from reaching the quarterfinals for the very first time, having fallen short at the group stage in all six of their previous attempts.

Group C Standings Ahead of Final Matches

The Cranes currently lead Group C with six points after Friday’s dramatic results left the group finely balanced.

Algeria 1–1 Guinea: Guinea thought they had stolen victory after a 62nd-minute strike, but Sofiane Bayazid’s late equaliser salvaged a point for Algeria, who now sit on five points—just one behind Uganda.

South Africa 0–0 Niger: A frustrating night for Bafana Bafana saw two penalty appeals turned down by VAR, leaving them with five points in third place. Niger, already eliminated, put up a resilient fight to deny them victory.

These results mean Uganda require at least a draw to progress, while Algeria will also qualify with victory over Niger in Nairobi. South Africa, however, have no margin for error—only a win guarantees them passage to the last eight.

A Chance to Re-write History

For Uganda, Monday’s encounter is more than just a group decider; it is an opportunity to finally break the chains of the past. The Cranes have carried the weight of six previous CHAN campaigns without progressing beyond the group stage. Now, with the passionate Namboole faithful behind them, the long-awaited breakthrough is within sight.

The Cranes will, however, be without influential midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards. His absence is a setback, but coach and teammates are expected to lean on the squad’s depth and home support to fill the void.

The Battle Lines

Uganda Cranes: Need at least a draw to progress (a win secures top spot). Likely to adopt a cautious yet ambitious approach—balancing defensive discipline with a push for a statement victory.

South Africa (Bafana Bafana): Must win to progress. Their attacking flair and youthful energy will be on show, though their struggles to break down Niger suggest vulnerabilities the disciplined Cranes could exploit.

Algeria: Require a win against Niger to progress.

Niger: Already eliminated, playing only for pride.

The Moment of Truth

All eyes will be on Namboole as the Uganda Cranes seek to end years of frustration and finally book their place in the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals. With the roar of their home crowd behind them and history within touching distance, Monday night could mark the moment the Cranes spread their wings beyond the group stage at last.