The long wait is over. Uganda Cranes have written a golden chapter in their football history after qualifying for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals for the first time ever, following a pulsating 3-3 draw with South Africa at the fully packed Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday night.
Heading into the Group C decider, the Cranes needed only a point to progress, while South Africa required outright victory. What unfolded under the floodlights was a breathtaking contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats and etched itself into Ugandan football folklore.
South Africa made the brighter start, with Wayde Jooste and Keagan Dolly troubling Uganda’s defense. But the Cranes stood resilient, and in the 14th minute, Karim Watambala forced a fine save from goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu.
Uganda’s breakthrough came in the 31st minute after a quick counterattack. Reagan Mpande combined brilliantly with Patrick Kakande, who set up Ssemugabi to slot home, sparking wild celebrations in the stands.
The second half, however, swung in South Africa’s favor. Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalized in the 52nd minute, with VAR confirming the goal, before Thabiso Kutulema struck moments later to make it 2-1. Uganda responded by bringing on Ivan Ahimbisibwe, whose energy lifted the attack.
South Africa extended their lead in the 78th minute when Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo converted from Dolly’s assist, silencing the home crowd at 3-1.
But the Cranes refused to surrender. In the 86th minute, Ahimbisibwe was fouled inside the box, and Allan Okello calmly converted from the penalty spot. With eight minutes of stoppage time, Uganda surged forward, roared on by a thunderous Namboole.
In a dramatic twist, VAR awarded Uganda another penalty deep into stoppage time. Captain Torach stepped up with nerves of steel to bury the spot-kick, leveling at 3-3 and sending the stadium into pandemonium.
Uganda held firm in the final moments to secure the crucial point, finishing Group C leaders on seven points, ahead of Algeria, Niger, and South Africa.
After six failed attempts in previous editions, the Uganda Cranes finally broke the jinx in the most dramatic fashion possible — storming into the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time in history.
