Historic Night as Uganda Cranes Reach CHAN Quarterfinals for First Time

                                                                                                                                                                  Historic Night as Uganda Cranes Reach CHAN Quarterfinals for First Time

The wait is finally over — Uganda Cranes have made history by qualifying for the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the very first time. This came after a thrilling 3-3 draw against South Africa at a packed Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday night.

Going into the decisive Group C clash, Uganda needed just a draw to advance, while South Africa were desperate for a win. What followed was an emotional and action-packed encounter that will be remembered as one of the most iconic nights in Ugandan football.

South Africa started aggressively, with Wayde Jooste and Keagan Dolly putting pressure on Uganda’s defense. However, the Cranes held firm. Uganda's first real opportunity came in the 14th minute when Karim Watambala forced a fine save from South African keeper Samukelo Xulu.

The deadlock was broken in the 31st minute after a rapid counterattack led by Reagan Mpande. He found Patrick Kakande, who set up Ssemugabi to finish calmly and send the home crowd into wild celebration.

The momentum shifted in the second half. South Africa leveled in the 52nd minute through Ramahlwe Mphahlele, with VAR confirming the goal. Soon after, Thabiso Kutulema gave Bafana Bafana a 2-1 lead. Uganda responded by bringing on Ivan Ahimbisibwe, whose fresh legs reinvigorated their attack.

In the 78th minute, South Africa struck again, this time through Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, assisted by Dolly, making it 3-1 and leaving Ugandan hopes hanging by a thread.

But the Cranes weren't done. Ahimbisibwe won a penalty in the 86th minute, and Allan Okello confidently converted to make it 3-2. With the stadium in full voice and eight minutes of added time, Uganda pushed forward relentlessly.

In the dying moments, VAR once again played a key role, awarding Uganda another penalty. Captain Torach kept his composure and scored the equalizer, sparking scenes of utter jubilation in Namboole.

Uganda held on for the final minutes, securing the vital point needed to top Group C with seven points, ahead of Algeria, Niger, and South Africa. After six unsuccessful CHAN campaigns, the Cranes have finally broken through — and in the most dramatic way imaginable.