Uganda Cranes Set for High-Stakes CHAN Clash Against South Africa
As hosts Uganda prepare to face South Africa in a must-win final group match at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, all eyes will be on the Cranes to deliver when it matters most.
Following a rocky start—a 3–0 defeat to Algeria in Kampala—Uganda bounced back with intent, securing crucial wins over Guinea (3–0) and Niger (2–0). Now, with quarter-final qualification on the line, they must navigate one final hurdle: a high-pressure showdown against a resurgent South African side.
The Cranes have shown grit, discipline, and flashes of brilliance. And while team spirit has been their backbone, five standout players have carried the hopes of a nation and will be central in deciding Uganda’s fate under the floodlights at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium.
Joel Mutakubwa – Uganda’s Last Line of Defence
The captain and goalkeeper, Mutakubwa, has grown into the tournament—rising from early adversity to lead his team with calm assurance and authority.
With two back-to-back clean sheets, including a match-winning performance against Niger that earned him the TotalEnergies Man of the Match, Mutakubwa’s shot-stopping, command of the box, and vocal leadership will be crucial against South Africa’s dynamic frontline.
One more flawless display could carry Uganda into the knockout rounds.
Allan Okello – The Creative Pulse
If Uganda are to unlock South Africa’s tight defence, they’ll need Okello at his very best.
The midfield orchestrator has already delivered big moments—a goal and assist against Niger, and a standout performance versus Guinea. With his ability to dictate tempo, deliver set-pieces, and find killer passes, Okello is the man who can shift the tide in a tight contest.
In a high-stakes battle, it’s players like Okello who turn pressure into opportunity.
Reagan Mpande – The Engine in the Middle
Every successful team needs a tireless workhorse, and Mpande has filled that role with unrelenting energy.
From scoring the opener against Guinea to winning the penalty against Niger, his presence has been felt in every phase of play. His aggression, pressing, and midfield control will be essential to break up South Africa’s rhythm and create attacking transitions.
This is a game where Mpande’s grit could make all the difference.
Joel Sserunjogi – The Suspended Spark
Though Sserunjogi will miss this clash due to yellow card suspension, his impact has already helped Uganda reach this point.
His goal and assist across two matches—and relentless wing play—have set the tone for Uganda’s resurgence. While he won’t feature tonight, his absence will be felt—and it’s up to his replacements to match the intensity he brought to the pitch.
Hilary Mukundane – The Defensive Anchor
In a match where defensive concentration is non-negotiable, Mukundane stands as Uganda’s rock at the back.
His calm presence, aerial dominance, and superb positioning have given the Cranes two clean sheets and a sense of stability in high-pressure situations. Against South Africa’s attacking threats, Mukundane will need to be at his best—once again marshalling a backline that cannot afford errors.
All on the Line
Uganda’s journey so far at CHAN 2024 has been one of recovery and resurgence. Now, it comes down to 90 minutes—possibly more.
Win, and a place in the quarter-finals beckons, with the country rallying behind their heroes. Lose, and the dream ends on home soil.
With a packed stadium, national pride, and CHAN glory on the line, the Cranes must dig deep—leaning on their leaders, trusting their structure, and believing in their moment.
Uganda vs South Africa.
It’s do or die.