Courtesy FUFA MEDIA
In a highly anticipated top-of-the-group clash between Uganda and South Africa, Bafana Bafana delivered a stunning 2-0 victory at Namboole Stadium, ending Uganda’s unbeaten run in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The loss came as a bitter disappointment to the Cranes, who had already secured their place in the tournament but were hoping to finish top of Group K with a win.
A Lackluster First Half for the Cranes
From the outset, Uganda struggled to get their rhythm. The first half was largely forgettable for the Cranes, who found it difficult to break down South Africa’s defense. Aside from a few errant crosses that failed to meet their target, the Cranes had little to offer in terms of attacking creativity. South Africa, meanwhile, controlled much of the possession in midfield, but neither team was able to create any clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes.
Cranes deployed two defensive midfielders, Taddeo Lwanga and Khalid Aucho, which seemed to stifle Uganda’s offensive options. The midfield was congested, and Uganda’s inability to assert themselves in this crucial area allowed South Africa to dictate the pace of the game.
Second Half: Morena and Maswanganyi Break the Deadlock
The game would be decided in the second half, with two substitutes proving to be the difference. South Africa made a tactical change at the break, and it paid off in spectacular fashion.
The first goal came in the 49th minute, when James Thapelo Morena, who had replaced Elias Sepho Mokwana at halftime, broke the deadlock. The Mamelodi Sundowns winger capitalized on a mistake in Uganda’s defense after an earlier foul on Cranes midfielder Taddeo Lwanga. Morena powered past Uganda’s goalkeeper, Isima Bin Rashid Abdul Watenga, from close range to give South Africa a 1-0 lead.
The Cranes struggled to regain control of the game, and South Africa’s second goal came in the 89th minutes . Patrick Maswanganyi, another substitute brought on by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, sealed the win with a clinical finish. The Orlando Pirates midfielder made an intelligent turn inside the box, shaking off a challenge from Uganda’s Lwaliwa to finish off a well-worked move that left Watenga with no chance.
Uganda’s Struggles in Midfield and Attack
The turning point in the game was undoubtedly Uganda’s failure to control the midfield, an area that had been key to their success in the qualifiers. South Africa’s midfield trio, led by the likes of Aubass,Mokoena and Leroux, was dominant throughout the match, while Uganda’s midfield duo of Aucho and Lwanga struggled to make an impact. This imbalance left Uganda with few attacking options, and as the game wore on, it became increasingly clear that South Africa had the upper hand.
A Heartbreaking Loss, But Qualification Secured
Despite the defeat, the match held little bearing on the overall qualification picture, as both Uganda and South Africa had already secured their places at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. The game was initially seen as a celebratory occasion for the Cranes, who were aiming to top Group K after their hard-earned qualification. However, the loss left fans heartbroken, as it was meant to be a moment of pride and joy for the Ugandan football community.
The defeat also raised questions about Uganda’s tactical setup and whether their midfield struggles will be a concern going forward into the final stages of the tournament preparation. With two defensive midfielders on the field, the Cranes lacked the attacking impetus needed to break down a well-organized South African side.
Looking Ahead to AFCON 2025
While this loss will certainly sting for the Cranes, qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is still a significant achievement.
South Africa XI: Ronwen Hayden Williams (Captain), Teboho Mokoena, Aubrey Maphosa Modiba, Oswin Reagan Appollis, Evidence Makgopa, Luke Gareth Le Roux, Rushwin Dortley, Mothobi Mvala, Bathusi Jurry Aubaas, Elias Sepho Mokwana, Khuliso Johnson Mudau
Subs: Sage Shane Stephens (G.K), Sipho Justin Chaine (G.K), Nyiko Sydney Mobbie, Fawaaz Basadien, Thalente Wandile Mbatha, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Iqraam Rayners, Devin Chandley Titus, Siyabonga Ngezana, Thapelo James Morena
Team Line Ups:
Uganda Cranes XI: Isima Watenga (G.K), Kenneth Ssemakula, Abdul-Azizi Kayondo, Bevis Mugabi, Timothy Denis Awanyi, Taddeo Lwanga, Khalid Aucho (Captain), Rogers Mato, Denis Omedi, Jude Ssemugabi, Allan Okello
Subs: Nafian Alionzi (G.K), Charles Lukwago (G.K), Geofrey Wasswa, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Travis Mutyaba, Halidi Lwaliwa, Calvin Kabuye, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Ronald Ssekiganda, Hakim Kiwanuka, Isaac Muleme
