In a dramatic night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, the Uganda Cranes battled from the brink of defeat to secure a historic 3-3 draw against South Africa earning the crucial point needed to advance to the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time in their history.
Uganda came into the match knowing that a single point would be enough to take them through. They got off to a dream start in the 31st minute when Jude Ssemugabi finished off a lightning-quick counterattack, sending the home crowd into rapturous cheers that carried through the first half.
But the momentum shifted in the second half. A brief lapse in concentration saw South Africa strike twice in quick succession, and by the 83rd minute, they looked to have sealed Uganda’s fate with a third goal, extending their lead to 3-1. Disheartened fans began leaving the stadium, believing the dream was over.
However, the Cranes had other plans.
In the 88th minute, Allan Okello kept Uganda’s hopes alive by calmly converting a penalty. With time running out, Uganda pressed forward desperately. Deep into stoppage time six minutes in VAR intervened to award Uganda a second penalty. With Okello off the pitch, captain Rogers Torach took responsibility and slotted home the equalizer, sparking pandemonium in the stands.
As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted. Not only had Uganda pulled off a miraculous comeback, but Algeria’s draw with Niger also meant the Cranes topped Group C, sealing their place in the last eight.
It was a night of heart, resilience, and history for Uganda a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
