Uganda players celebrates CHAN 2024 qualification. Image: CHAN.
(The Post News) – On Monday, South Africa hosted Uganda at Mandela National Stadium for the African Nations Champions (CHAN), which had the two clubs ending in a 3-3 stalemate. The draw gave Uganda an opportunity to proceed to the next stage of the competition.
Uganda managed to win the first half with Jude Ssemugabi scoring at 31 minutes. This was a shared goal, as Patrick Kakade dished the ball as an assist. Despite Uganda scoring, South Africa had the ball as they clinched the highest ball possession.
The second half prevailed with plenty of attacking football, resulting in five goals. Ramahlwe Mohahlele opened the second half scoring sheet. Putting South Africa level with Uganda, assisted by Kwanda Mngonyama at 52 minutes.
Though South Africa’s all-time goal scorer, Neo Maema, did not score, he had an assist given to Thabiso Kutumela, who found the back of the net at 58 minutes. Then Ndabeyithetwa Ndlondlo stretched the goals to 3-1 at 83′, getting an assist from Keagan Dolly.
Uganda dramatically got back in the game, benefiting from South Africa’s defense mistakes that gave it two penalties. At 88 minutes Allan Okello scored with a penalty. Then, in the 90+4 minute, Rogers Ochaki converted on a penalty, ending the game with a thrilling six goals.
The dramatic comeback for Uganda books them a ticket to the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals, with Algeria following after a nil-nil draw with Niger. South Africa and Guinea have to pack out of the competition after a game of cinema this evening.
Each point makes no difference to the group C team, as Uganda remains at the top of the table, adding one point to make seven points. South Africa remains at number three, having six points, equal to Algeria. Then Guinea fourth, followed by Niger at last fifth.
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