The Uganda Cranes made history by advancing to the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, following a decisive 0–0 draw with South Africa at Namboole Stadium.
The result was enough for Uganda to top their group and secure a spot in the knockout stages for the first time in the tournament’s history. South Africa, meanwhile, was eliminated from the competition.
Uganda finished ahead of Algeria on goal difference after both teams tied on points. This was the first-ever CHAN meeting between Uganda and South Africa, and notably South Africa’s first match against an East African team and a host nation at CHAN.
The draw marked the 19th different opponent Uganda has faced in CHAN history, while for South Africa, the Cranes became their ninth.
Historically, Uganda had struggled against teams from Southern Africa. Before this match, they had never beaten a COSAFA side at CHAN, drawing twice with Zimbabwe and losing to Zambia and Namibia between 2016 and 2018.
This time, however, a tactical and disciplined performance earned Uganda a valuable point, confirming their place in the quarter-finals.
A Ugandan victory would have sealed the group outright, but even with a draw, the Cranes achieved a major milestone one that brings fresh hope and energy to the national team.
