Uganda Cranes Riding the Wave of History Ahead of Senegal Clash

Uganda’s Cranes are on the brink of history as they prepare to face defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Pamoja CHAN at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

For the first time ever, Uganda advanced past the group stage, topping Group C with seven points. The achievement has fueled belief across the nation that this could be their breakthrough tournament.

Head coach Morley Byekwaso, the man behind the Cranes’ impressive run, struck a confident but cautious tone ahead of the knockout clash.

“Tomorrow will be a very tough game, but we are prepared. It’s a special match for us because we are playing at home and want to bring joy to our fans. This is not a friendly — it’s a knockout game where we must show character and discipline. Senegal is experienced, they’ve been champions for the last two years, but with our fans behind us, we believe we can achieve victory,” Byekwaso told reporters on Friday.

The Cranes’ path to the last eight was as dramatic as it was entertaining. Their group fixtures alone accounted for 14 goals, in a tournament that had seen 76 goals in 37 matches at that stage.

• Lost 3–0 to Algeria.
• Bounced back with a 3–0 win over Guinea.
• Defeated Niger 2–0.
• Played out a thrilling 3–3 draw against South Africa.

The results showcased both Uganda’s attacking flair and defensive vulnerabilities, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Key Team News

Uganda will welcome back midfielder Joel Serujoji, a boost to Byekwaso’s plans. He is expected to partner Enock Sebagala in midfield, with Abdul Karim Watambala playing just ahead of them.

Defensively, the Cranes face a setback as Hilary Mukundane is suspended after picking up a booking against South Africa. Arnold Odong is tipped to step into central defense alongside captain Rogers Torach, with Herbert Achayi at left-back and Gavin Kizito Mugweri at right-back.

In attack, Reagan Mpande is set to start on the left, Allan Okello on the right, and Jude Semugabi leading the line.

The Senegal Challenge

Senegal arrive with formidable credentials. They have kept six clean sheets in their last seven CHAN matches and conceded only once in this year’s group stage, which featured Nigeria and Sudan.

History also favors the Lions of Teranga — they have never lost to a host nation at CHAN finals. Uganda, meanwhile, will remember their last encounter with defending champions at CHAN, when they fell 5–2 to Morocco in 2021.

Twelfth Man Advantage

Despite the odds, optimism is soaring in Uganda. Tickets for the clash are already sold out, guaranteeing a raucous home atmosphere at Namboole. The Cranes will be counting on the “12th man” to push them past a team that thrives on discipline and defensive solidity.

Should the match end in a draw, extra time awaits — and with Uganda’s attacking spirit and Senegal’s defensive record, fans are bracing themselves for a clash that could be both tense and historic.

Uganda is riding the wave of history. The question now is whether the tide will carry them past the defending champions.