CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes Stun Guinea to Claim First Tournament Win
The Uganda Cranes bounced back in emphatic fashion, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Guinea in their second Group C fixture of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 at Namboole Stadium, Kampala.
The win was a crucial response to their disappointing start, having suffered a 3-0 defeat to Algeria in their opening match. With this result, the hosts have reignited their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.
Reagan Mpande opened the scoring in the 35th minute with a towering header that sent the packed home crowd into celebration. The Cranes continued to dominate under the floodlights, pressing the visitors deep into their half.
Allan Okello doubled the lead in the 62nd minute from the penalty spot, showing composure after Guinea’s earlier penalty award was overturned by the referee following a VAR review—a decision that drew huge relief from the stands.
The icing on the cake came in the 89th minute when KCCA FC striker Ivan Ahimbisibwe sealed the win with a clinical finish, triggering wild celebrations across the stadium.
With two matches played, Uganda now sits second in Group C on three points, trailing leaders Algeria by one point. Guinea are third, also on three points, while South Africa and Niger remain in fourth and fifth place, respectively, ahead of their match in hand.
The Cranes will now turn their focus to their final group game, knowing that another strong performance could see them advance to the knockout rounds of CHAN 2024.
