Oussama Lamlioui’s long-range stunner ensured Morocco retained their grip on the African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Madagascar in the 2024 final at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium.
The RS Berkane forward produced the moment of magic in the 80th minute, striking instinctively from nearly fifty yards to beat Madagascar goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa, sealing Morocco’s record third CHAN title.
Madagascar, playing their first-ever continental final, stunned the Atlas Lions early when forward Felicite “Fely” Manohantsoa rifled home a sensational ninth-minute opener from distance to spark wild celebrations among the crowd.
But Morocco’s composure and tournament pedigree soon told. In the 27th minute, Youssef Mehri restored parity with a towering header from Khalid Baba’s cross before Lamlioui pounced on a deflected ball to give the North Africans a 2-1 halftime lead.
The Barea, however, refused to bow. Inspired substitutions and spirited play brought them level in the 68th minute when captain Nantenaina “Tony” Randiramanampisoa’s cross was flicked on by Fely for substitute “Toky” Rakotondraibe to finish sharply.
With the tie delicately poised at 2-2, Lamlioui once again rose to the occasion, punishing a loose clearance with his audacious strike that looped beyond Toldo’s fingertips.
The breathtaking final highlighted Morocco’s dominance in CHAN history while underlining Madagascar’s meteoric rise on the continental stage. The Atlas Lions celebrated a historic third crown, but the Barea departed Nairobi with pride and admiration after pushing the champions all the way.
Senegal secured third place at the CHAN (PAMOJA 2024) tournament after defeating Sudan 4-2 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday evening.
The bronze medal marks a second successive podium finish for the defending champions, who had been denied a place in the final after falling to Morocco in the semi-finals. For Sudan, the wait for a third CHAN medal continues despite an impressive run and a spirited display in the play-off.
Sudan Strike First, Senegal Fight Back
Backed by a lively Kampala crowd, Sudan began on the front foot and took an early lead in the 6th minute. Mohamed Tia Asad rose highest to nod home Abdel Raouf Yagoub’s corner, giving the Falcons of Jediane a deserved 1-0 advantage. That lead stood until half-time as Sudan displayed great discipline at the back, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja producing key saves to frustrate Senegal’s attacks.
But after the restart, Senegal responded with intensity. Their breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Seyni Ndiaye met Ousseynou Seck’s fine cross with a perfectly timed header to level matters at 1-1. From then on, the Lions of Teranga controlled much of the play, though Sudan remained dangerous on the counter.
Penalties Decide the Tie
With no extra-time provision for the third-place playoff, the game went straight to penalties after 90 minutes.
Sudan faltered first—Walieldin Khdir missed the opening kick before Musab Makeen saw his effort saved by Marc Diouf. Although Mohamed Ahmed Saeed and Ahmed Tabanja converted theirs, the damage had been done.
Senegal, meanwhile, were flawless from the spot. Joseph Layousse, Issa Kane, Vieux Cissé, and Libasse Guèye all dispatched confidently to seal a 4-2 shootout triumph.
Senegal Redeem Themselves, Sudan Earn Respect
For head coach Souleymane Diallo, the victory offered a measure of redemption after missing out on the final. “This was about character,” he said. “The players showed maturity after the semi-final setback. We wanted to finish with something, and we did that.”
Senegal’s bronze also highlighted their consistency, as they stretched their unbeaten record in open play to 10 CHAN matches. Sudan, guided by Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah, bowed out with pride. Despite domestic football being disrupted by conflict, they defied the odds to reach the semi-finals, knocking out Nigeria and pushing Madagascar all the way.
Appiah saluted his team’s resilience: “We came very far with limited preparation. I am proud of how the players fought. Sudanese football has shown it still has heart.”
Attention Turns to the Final
With Senegal taking bronze and Sudan narrowly missing out, focus now shifts to Nairobi, where Morocco will clash with Madagascar in Saturday’s final at Moi International Sports Centre.
Morocco held their nerve to eliminate defending champions Senegal in a tense penalty shootout and book their place in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final. The Atlas Lions triumphed 5-3 on spot kicks after a 1-1 stalemate in their semifinal clash played in Kampala, Uganda on Tuesday evening.
It was a fiercely contested encounter, with Senegal looking dangerous on the counter while Morocco dominated possession. The Teranga Lions struck first after 15 minutes when Layousse Samb rose highest to head home Libasse Guèye’s corner, punishing slack Moroccan marking.
The Atlas Lions, however, responded swiftly. A poor clearance from Senegal’s defense fell kindly to Morocco’s set-piece specialist Sabir Bougrine, who produced a stunning volley from the edge of the box that left goalkeeper Marc Philips Diouf with no chance.
Drama unfolded early in the second half when Morocco’s Marouane Louadni was initially shown a red card for fouling Vieux Cissé, seemingly denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. VAR intervened, downgrading the decision to a yellow after replays suggested Cissé went down too easily.
Both sides pushed for a winner but lacked the finishing touch. Ayoub Khairi went close for Morocco midway through the second half, while Senegal’s Ababacar Sarr headed wide with the goal at his mercy late on. With extra time failing to produce a breakthrough, penalties decided the contest.
Morocco captain Mohamed Hrimat confidently opened the shootout before Senegal defender Mbaye Ndiaye struck the crossbar with his effort, handing the advantage to the Atlas Lions. The North Africans converted all five of their penalties to claim victory and seal their passage to the final.
Two-time winners Morocco now have the chance to set a new record for CHAN titles when they face Madagascar in Saturday’s final at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya (15:00 GMT). Senegal will play Sudan in the third-place playoff on Friday in Kampala.
Uganda Cranes’ fairytale run at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to a close on Saturday evening at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, following a narrow 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals.
A second-half strike from Oumar Ba proved decisive for the Lions of Teranga, but it did little to overshadow the gallant fight and resilience shown by the Cranes in front of their home fans.
The game was fiercely contested with both teams struggling to carve out clear opportunities. Cranes goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa and his Senegalese counterpart Marc Philips Arona Diouf were largely untroubled in the first half, as the match turned into a tense battle of tactical discipline and patience.
Senegal’s moment came in the 62nd minute when Libasse Guèye broke down the left flank before setting up Ba, who finished clinically to give the holders the advantage.
Uganda, roared on by a passionate Namboole crowd, responded with urgency. Substitute Kiza Usama came agonisingly close late in the game after a spilled effort by Diouf led to a goalmouth scramble, but he could not keep his shot down.
Despite the result, the Cranes leave the tournament with heads held high, having made history by reaching the quarterfinals for the very first time after six previous attempts. Their performances throughout the tournament inspired pride and belief, signalling a bright future for Ugandan football.
With Kenya and Tanzania also bowing out at the same stage, Uganda’s journey remains a landmark moment for East African football, particularly as hosts.
FUFA salutes the players, coaches, and fans whose passion and dedication drove the Cranes to this historic milestone at CHAN 2024.
The Uganda Cranes have only 90 minutes to greatness as they prepare for a blockbuster clash with defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. The match is set for Saturday 23rd August 2025 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Uganda enters the tie in high spirits after topping Group C with seven points from four matches. The achievement has set the stage for a defining moment, with the team eyeing a first-ever progression beyond the last eight of the tournament.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso expressed confidence while remaining realistic about the task ahead.
‘We are playing a well-organised team that has been in the tournament for a long time. We have played them in friendlies, and we know their strengths. The Senegalese are very physical, but every team has weaknesses. This is no longer the group stage; mistakes at this level can cost us dearly. The boys are well-prepared both physically and emotionally, so we are good to go,’ said Byekwaso.
While admitting that Senegal will pose a tough test, the Cranes tactician highlighted discipline and composure as Uganda’s key weapons.
‘We must be disciplined as we are facing a disciplined team. We will focus on minimising mistakes and forcing them into errors. That is how we will create scoring opportunities. We also have the advantage of playing in front of our home fans, and we know how much they expect from us. The boys are aware of this, and they are ready.’
Byekwaso also called for massive fan support, underlining the importance of the home atmosphere.
‘This is a tournament where every team is strong, but playing at home gives us a boost. Our fans have been incredible, pushing the team until the last whistle. We call upon them once again to rally behind us. Together, we can achieve great things.’
The players, too, are brimming with confidence. Joel Serunjogi emphasised the unity and focus within the camp.
‘Everyone is happy and focused. We have learned from the group stage that we must never give up. It is an honour to represent the country, and I will give my all on Saturday. I thank our fans for standing by us, and I call upon them to come in big numbers. We will not disappoint—we want to win.’
Kick-off is set for 5:00 PM at Mandela National Stadium.
Uganda Cranes qualified for the quarterfinals in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time after their draw against South Africa in a dramatic comeback. Head Coach Morley Byekwaso attributed the team’s success to the unwavering belief from the start.
‘Yes, we believed we could do it, and finally, we are here,’ he said. ‘When we lost our first game at the start of the tournament, it was hurtful, but we kept believing and pushing, and here we are. As I always say, there’s always a reason for something. We have been leading the table, and here we are, past the group stage, waiting for our next opponent.’
Coach Byekwaso also commented on his players’ performance: ‘We played Allan Okello in a different position than what he played in the first game against Algeria because we know he is more productive in that role. Football is football; sometimes it takes some time to pick up, but he is our playmaker. We believe in him, and he has done well. We believe our league is not as strong as the leagues of other teams we are playing against, so there are things that drain us, especially when we are under pressure. But the players have to know how to cope with situations when they are leading. We are working on it, and we believe we will get there with time.’
Regarding the incident of penalty takers on the team, Coach Morley said: ‘The team has players who take penalties, but the game was so tense. Confidence was everything, which is why we saw them exchanging the ball with the captain. Yes, that’s why we selected him to be the captain – he had the heart and belief to take that penalty decider, and yes, he made it.’
Morley believes they now have to shift their focus to another target in the tournament: ‘Our first target was to get out of the group for the first time ever, but now the target has changed. We have another game on Saturday, so after the excitement, we are going back to training with new words, new motivation, and a new approach. We need to do well even in our next game, so the excitement is only for a certain period. We have to continue preparing for other games.’
Concerning yellow cards, Morley says: ‘That’s just how football is. We missed Joel Serunjoji in today’s game, but we got the point we wanted. We may not have control over yellow cards, but we must be prepared for them. We are going to miss Hillary Mukundane, who is one of our good defenders, but I believe we have someone who will play in his position because I trust all the boys.’
The Uganda Cranes will play either Senegal, Sudan, or Congo in their next game on Saturday.
Match highlights
🎥 HIGHLIGHTS: 🇿🇦 3-3 🇺🇬
Uganda steal the show with a dramatic comeback in a six-goal spectacle to top Group C. 🚀
The long wait is finally over. Uganda Cranes have written a new chapter in their football history, qualifying for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals for the very first time after a pulsating 3-3 draw with South Africa at a fully packed Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Monday night.
Heading into the Group C decider, the Cranes needed just a point to book their place in the last eight, while South Africa required nothing less than victory. What unfolded under the floodlights was a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and unforgettable moments that will live long in Ugandan football folklore.
South Africa started on the front foot, with Wayde Jooste and Keagan Dolly tormenting Uganda’s backline, but the Cranes stood firm. The first real chance for Uganda came in the 14th minute when Karim Watambala tested goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu, who denied him with a fine save.
The breakthrough came in the 31st minute after a swift counterattack led by Reagan Mpande, who teed up Patrick Kakande to deliver a precise ball for Ssemugabi to slot home, igniting deafening celebrations inside Namboole.
The tide, however, shifted in the second half. South Africa equalized in the 52nd minute through Ramahlwe Mphahlele, with VAR confirming the goal. Moments later, Thabiso Kutulema struck to put Bafana Bafana ahead 2-1. Uganda responded by introducing Ivan Ahimbisibwe, whose energy revitalized the attack.
But South Africa weren’t done. In the 78th minute, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo converted from a Keagan Dolly assist to make it 3-1, and Ugandan hearts began to sink.
Yet, the Cranes refused to bow out. In the 86th minute, Ahimbisibwe was fouled inside the box, and Allan Okello coolly slotted home from the spot to pull one back. With the crowd roaring them on and eight minutes of added time on the board, Uganda piled on the pressure.
Deep into stoppage time, VAR intervened once again, awarding Uganda another penalty. This time, captain Torach stepped up with nerves of steel, converting to level the game at 3-3 and sending Namboole into absolute pandemonium.
The Cranes held their ground in the dying minutes, securing the crucial point that took them to seven points, finishing as Group C leaders ahead of Algeria, Niger, and South Africa.
After six previous failed attempts, Uganda Cranes finally broke the jinx, storming into the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time in history — in the most dramatic fashion possible.
The Uganda Cranes are just a step away from making history as they gear up for their decisive final Group C match of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 against South Africa at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday evening at 8pm.
Workaholic midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala, who plies his trade with Vipers SC in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and featuring in his third CHAN tournament passionately expressed gratitude to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), the Government of Uganda, and the fans for their unwavering support throughout the campaign ahead of the big one against Bafana Bafana.
“We thank FUFA and the Government for everything they have done for the national team up to this day. We also thank the fans who have given us full support in all our games, right from our first match against Algeria, where we disappointed them, but hopefully, we gave them the happiness they deserve in our last two games. We call upon them to come in large numbers tomorrow as we play our last game, and we promise not to disappoint them,” Watambala said during the pre-match press conference on Sunday at Namboole stadium.
Watambala, one of the team’s most experienced players at this level, emphasized the importance of unity within the squad, noting that Uganda’s strength lies in collective effort.
“I also thank my fellow players because you can’t play alone on the pitch; we always have 11 players. We’ve worked together from the start and hope to continue with this spirit going forward.”
On the team’s readiness, Watambala exuded confidence, stressing that the group had learned from early setbacks and is determined to seize the moment.
“The boys are in good shape and aren’t willing to disappoint the fans. We’re all prepared and just waiting for the final day. We know where we’ve come from, and we know what it means. We had a setback in our first game, but we learned from our mistakes. We don’t want to disappoint the coaches and everyone who believes in us. We’ve had good preparations, and we’re good to go.”
The Cranes currently lead Group C with six points from three games, recovering strongly after a difficult start. Their 3-0 win over Guinea and 2-0 triumph against Niger have put them within touching distance of their first-ever CHAN quarterfinal berth.
A draw against South Africa will be enough to confirm qualification, while victory would ensure Uganda tops the group in style.
The Uganda Cranes are just 90 minutes away from making history as they take on South Africa in their final Group C fixture of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole tomorrow, Monday at 8pm.
Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso has emphasized that nothing short of victory is on his players’ minds despite needing only a draw to advance.
“South Africa is a good team, very strong in the final third, but we know what is at stake,” Byekwaso said at the pre-match press conference on Sunday at Namboole stadium.”
“We top the table because we worked very hard for it. We want a win regardless. Passing through the humiliation against Algeria and coming back stronger in the next two games shows we are prepared to make history.” He added.
The Cranes currently lead Group C with six points from three games, rebounding from a 3-0 defeat to Algeria with a 3-0 win over Guinea and a 2-0 triumph over Niger. However, they will be without midfielder Joel Sserunjogi who is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards.
“Missing Joel is challenging, but I trust all the boys. Every player has his moment, and someone will step up to fill the gap,” Byekwaso noted. He also praised the fans’ backing: “We thank the supporters who have been with us since the start. We call on them to come in big numbers and help us finish what we started.”
On the other side, South Africa head coach Molefi Ntseki underlined the magnitude of the tie for Bafana Bafana, who sit third in the group with five points.
“This is a very important match. We know that when we win, we progress to the quarterfinals,” Ntseki stressed. “It’s the final game of Group C, and all three teams want the win. We are ready to fight and will do whatever it takes to go past this stage.”
Group C Scenarios
Uganda Cranes: Need at least a draw to qualify; a win guarantees top spot.
South Africa: Must win to qualify.
Algeria: Require victory against Niger to progress.
Niger: Eliminated, playing for pride.
With history on the line and a passionate Namboole crowd behind them, the Cranes are closer than ever to breaking their group-stage curse. For Byekwaso and his charges, Monday night is more than a football match, it’s a chance to etch their names into Uganda’s football history.
The stage is set for a historic night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole as the Uganda Cranes stand just 90 minutes away from securing a place in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 quarterfinals.
Needing only a point against South Africa in their final Group C fixture on Monday, the Cranes are on the verge of breaking a long-standing barrier, having never progressed past the group stages in their previous six attempts.
The Cranes currently top Group C with six points, following Friday’s dramatic encounters that saw both matches end in stalemates.
Algeria 1–1 Guinea: The Syli Nationale looked set to grab a famous victory after taking the lead in the 62nd minute, but Sofiane Bayazid struck late for the Desert Foxes, ensuring Algeria moved to five points, one behind Uganda.
South Africa 0–0 Niger: In a frustrating night for Bafana Bafana, VAR denied them two penalty appeals, leaving them with just five points in third place. Niger, who are now mathematically out of contention, played spoilers with a resilient display.
The results mean Uganda sit in pole position and require only a draw against South Africa to seal qualification. Algeria face Niger in Nairobi in the group’s other fixture and a win will guarantee them qualification.
For Uganda, Monday’s game is more than just a group decider, it represents a chance to rewrite history. The Cranes have consistently stumbled at the group stage in past six CHAN editions. This time, with the support of a passionate home crowd, they are closer than ever to achieving the long-awaited breakthrough.
The Cranes will have to do without influential midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. His absence is a blow, but the Cranes are expected to rally behind their depth and the energy of the Namboole faithful.
South Africa, sitting third with five points, will throw everything into the contest, knowing that only a win guarantees them a spot in the last eight. Bafana Bafana will lean on their attacking flair and youthful energy, but their inability to break down Niger showed vulnerabilities that the disciplined Cranes can exploit.
Uganda, on the other hand, are likely to balance caution with ambition. A draw is enough, but a statement victory would stamp their authority as genuine contenders for the title.
Uganda Cranes need at least a draw to qualify (a win secures top spot).
South Africa: Must win to progress. Algeria require victory against Niger to progress
Niger eliminated and playing for pride.
All eyes will be on Namboole as the Uganda Cranes aim to book their ticket to the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals with the roar of the home crowd behind them and history within touching distance.
Uganda goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa has urged his teammates to quickly put aside the latest TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) victory against Niger and concentrate on the crucial final Group C encounter against South Africa.
The Cranes moved to the summit of Group C with a composed 2-0 triumph at Nelson Mandela Stadium on Monday night their first-ever back-to-back wins in CHAN history putting them within touching distance of a quarter-final berth.
Allan Okello opened the scoring midway through the first half, moments after seeing his penalty saved, before Joel Sserunjogi doubled the advantage with a clinical finish. Mutakubwa’s outstanding saves preserved the clean sheet and earned him the man of the match accolade.
‘We thank God for this moment. It’s something I’ve worked hard for and, most importantly, for the three points we’ve earned,” Mutakubwa said with visible pride after the match. “Following the loss to Algeria in the first game, we knew every match from then on was like a cup final, and the next one will be no different. South Africa are a strong side, so we have to regroup and prepare well.’
Okello admitted it was a tough battle but praised his side’s readiness.
‘It wasn’t an easy match, but we were prepared and fought for the nation,” the attacking midfielder said. “When I stepped up for the penalty, I was a little nervous, and unfortunately, it didn’t go in. Luckily, the rebound came my way and I made it count. Now our focus shifts fully to the last game against South Africa.’
Sserunjogi, who will miss the South Africa clash through suspension after accumulating two yellow cards, expressed faith in his teammates.
‘Of course I would love to be on the pitch, but I believe in the quality we have. Whoever gets the chance to play in my position will deliver,’ he assured.
Patrick Kakande echoed the team-first mentality.
‘For us, it’s always about the team, not individual performance. Everyone is working for the same goal, and we hope to finish the job against South Africa and qualify,’ he said.
The Cranes will face South Africa in their final group match, knowing a positive result could seal their place in the knockout stages.
Namboole Stadium, Monday Night, Uganda Cranes recorded their second successive victory in the CHAN 2024 Group C campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Niger, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages firmly alive. The win sees Uganda climb to six points from three matches, setting up a potential group decider against South Africa on 18th August.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso maintained the same starting XI that convincingly beat Guinea 3-0 in the previous outing, and his charges once again repaid the faith with an energetic performance in front of a passionate home crowd.
The Cranes started on the front foot, creating early pressure and winning their first corner in the 2nd minute. The high tempo was briefly interrupted in the 7th minute when Joel Sserunjogi was booked for a foul.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute after Enock Ssebagala delivered a dangerous cross from the left. Reagan Mpande’s attempted tap-in was blocked by a Niger defender, but in doing so, the ball struck his hand. Referee Ousmane Diakate of Mali consulted VAR before awarding a penalty.
Allan Okello stepped up, and although his initial spot kick was saved by goalkeeper Mahamadou Tandja, the playmaker reacted swiftly to slot home the rebound, sending the crowd into wild celebrations in the 25th minute.
Uganda nearly doubled the lead in the 32nd minute when Abdu Karim Watambala released Ssemugabi on the right, but the forward’s low effort whisked inches past the far post. Niger responded with a double substitution in the 35th minute, introducing Moussa Kassa and Samaila Danja to inject fresh energy.
The visitors almost leveled in the 40th minute through Latif Djibril, whose close-range attempt sailed just over the crossbar. Uganda held firm to take a deserved 1-0 lead into the break.
The Cranes resumed with the same attacking intent, and three minutes into the second half, Ssemugabi missed a good chance with a header from a Mpande cross.
In the 56th minute, Uganda found their cushion. Okello turned provider, slipping a clever pass to Joel Sserunjogi, who fired a precise strike into the net for 2-0. Moments later, Ssebagala was forced off with injury, replaced by Elvis Ngonde.
Niger made further changes in search of a way back, but the Ugandan backline, marshalled by a commanding Joel Mutakubwa in goal, remained resolute.
Byekwaso introduced fresh legs, with Patrick Kakande replacing Okello in the 75th minute, and later Ivan Ahimbisibwe and Usama Kiza coming on for Mpande and Ssemugabi in the final stages.
Mpande came closest to adding a third late on after a selfless pass from Ssemugabi, but his shot flew over the bar.
With six points from three games, Uganda will now turn their focus to a crucial final group fixture against South Africa on 18th August at Namboole. The Bafana Bafana will come into the match buoyed by their 2-1 win over Guinea earlier in the day – setting the stage for a potential group-deciding showdown.
Having regained momentum after their second game against Guinea, where they won 3-0 with goals from Reagan Mpande, Allan Okello, and Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Morley’s troops are more than ready to take on Niger in the third CHAN match.
With zero points in one game played, Niger sits last in Group C, while the Cranes sit second, one point behind the table leaders who have four points from two games played. The Cranes will face Niger tomorrow at 8:00 PM at Uganda’s Football Stadium, Mandela National Stadium, with high hopes of securing a top spot in their group.
Speaking during the final press conference, head coach Morley Byekwaso expressed confidence in his team, highlighting their readiness for tomorrow’s win.
‘All games are different; each has its unique challenges and technical approach. I can’t promise you that we’ll have the same lineup, but we might make a few changes depending on the opponent. The players who performed well last time will be given a chance tomorrow.’
Morley credited the fans for their support, promising not to disappoint them.
‘This game means a lot to us. We appreciate the fan base and the energy, but mostly, I thank them for showing up in large numbers last time. It was my first time seeing such a big crowd behind us. We respect them greatly and promise to give it our all best because winning this game would significantly increase our chances of advancing past the group stages.’
Regarding team news, Morley said, ‘The players who were injured last time are recovering well, but they’re not yet fully fit to start. We’ll make a final decision this afternoon on how to utilize them in tomorrow’s game. We need everyone – the technical team, fans, and players – to do their part. The boys have high morale, even more so than last time. We know Niger will be eager to win after losing their first game, but we’re ready to face them and secure the 3 points.’
Player Gavin Kizito added, ‘We lost our first game and bounced back with a win in the second. It’s possible for Niger to do the same. We can’t take them for granted; we need to win this game. Yes, we are ready to make every minute on the pitch count. Every player in the camp is prepared, and we’re ready to take on Niger tomorrow.’
The Uganda Cranes will play their last game on Friday, August 18, against South Africa.
Uganda Cranes played their second game of the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 today at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, where they beat Guinea 3-0. The Cranes fought hard and brought joy to their fans, who cheered loudly in the stands.
The first goal came in the 31st minute when SC Villa winger Reagan Mpande, making his maiden CHAN appearance, gave Uganda the lead with a fine assist from KCCA midfielder Joel Serunjoji, who is also playing in his first CHAN tournament.
The first yellow card of the match came in the 55th minute after Vipers SC centre-back Hillary Mukundane was fouled.
In the 61st minute, Uganda extended their lead through Allan Okello’s spot-kick after he was fouled in the 18-yard box and awarded a penalty following a VAR check.
In the 78th minute, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, making his maiden appearance, was introduced and later made it 3-0 with a fine finish from a Patrick Jonah Kakande assist.
Uganda Cranes coach Morley Byekwaso reacted to the team’s performance, highlighting the positives.
‘We went back to the drawing board, made some changes in our line-up and performed better. It’s not yet over; we still have two games to play and our dream is still alive to go past the group stages.’
Speaking about the captaincy, Byekwaso said, ‘We saw the captain’s armband limiting Allan Okello from doing what he is capable of. We told Torach to take over the role and he has done really well. We can build from that.’
He also thanked the fans for their unwavering support. ‘I want to thank the fans for always coming in big numbers. What amazed me is that this time we had even more than in the first game. Fans put a little pressure on us but also motivated the players to keep going. I call upon them to continue supporting us until the very end.’
Goal scorer and man of the match Allan Okello thanked the coaches for their belief. ‘The coaches kept telling us we could still do it. They told us to fight until the last whistle. I feel good to be man of the match, but I credit all my teammates because we’ve done this together. We still have a long way to go because our competitors have four points, we have three, and we need to push to fulfil our dream of getting past the group stage.’
He added, ‘We thank the fans for always loving and supporting us. We promise to do our best so we can give them the happiness they deserve.’
Uganda Cranes will face Niger on Monday 11th August 2025 and play South Africa in their final group match on Friday 18th August 2025.
Arnold Odong is a professional footballer at Sports Club Villa in Uganda.
He was born in Gulu, northern Uganda. After losing his parents as a young child, Arnold and his two siblings were left vulnerable and unable to access basic care.
‘Life was hard, with no hope of a future, as I see it now, and no education and proper medical care,’ he recalls.
A social worker who lived near Arnold’s home noticed the family’s situation and connected Arnold to Watoto ChildCare Ministries. The organisation cares for orphaned and vulnerable children by building children’s villages where they receive holistic care to grow up healthy and whole—food, clothing, medical care, education, and most importantly, the love of a mother.
While in primary school, Arnold developed an interest in football and was enrolled at the Watoto Sports Academy to nurture his talent.
In high school, he continued to develop his skills and participated in several tournaments for his school. After completing high school, Arnold attended Makerere University Business School to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
During university, he played for the university team and was identified to participate in the Buganda Kingdom Masaza Cup. At the Masaza Cup tournament, Sports Club Villa, a professional football club based in Kampala, Uganda, and competing in the Uganda Premier League, spotted him, leading to his signing with the club to play professional football.
Arnold’s notable achievement at the club was being part of the team that secured the 2024 Star Times Uganda Premier League trophy. He played twenty-five matches that season, accumulating 2271 minutes of playtime.
During the 2024/2025 Season in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, he played a total of 24 matches and scored a goal for SC Villa, accumulating 2021 minutes of playing time. He was substituted in only twice.
While at SC Villa, he was called to join the national team (Uganda Cranes), where he was called up for qualifier games for the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations.
His most recent star performance was scoring the first goal against Senegal during the CECAFA 3 Nations Tournament last month in Tanzania. His dream now is to play football on the international stage.
‘Playing for the national team is a privilege and an honour. It’s such a pleasure to represent my nation. I’m grateful to God and everyone who has contributed to my journey,’ he says.
The 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group C heats up on Friday, August 8, as co-hosts Uganda, tournament favourites Algeria, and South Africa all take to the field at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The day will feature two crucial fixtures that could shape the group standings.
In the early kick-off, Algeria will lock horns with South Africa at 5:00 PM EAT, before the hosts Uganda return to action in a high-stakes clash against Guinea at 8:00 PM.
Algeria head into their second match riding high after a commanding 3-0 win over Uganda in the tournament opener. Coach Madjid Bougherra, however, remains grounded, acknowledging the unpredictability of tournament football.
‘Every game is a final,’ Bougherra said. ‘South Africa brings a different kind of challenge — very vibrant, quick and technical. We see these players in the CAF Champions League. It’s up to us to adapt and give everything.’
On concerns about venue changes and preparation disruptions, Bougherra remained unfazed:
‘We have had to switch training grounds, but it’s part of the game. We are used to adapting. Conditions are good and there are no logistical issues.’
Despite his impressive unbeaten streak since taking over, the former Algerian international refuses to dwell on statistics.
“Yes, we have not lost and I take pride in that — but the real pressure is always about the next match, not the last one.’
Midfielder Iheb Belhocini echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasising the team’s unity and focus:
‘We are in high spirits. The camp atmosphere is great, and as always, we are approaching this as a final.’
Meanwhile, South Africa, under the leadership of Molefi Ntseki, are preparing to play their tournament match with confidence and calculated caution.
‘We appreciate CAF for organising a tournament of this scale,’ Ntseki remarked. ‘The opening minutes and the final quarter of the match are always tricky and we’ve seen that already.’
While some view Algeria’s prior match experience as an advantage, Ntseki dismissed the notion:
‘Preparation is everything. We have studied all our group opponents and our focus is purely on our own game and strengths. Algeria is strong and experienced, but so are we.’
On the challenge of assembling a squad amid domestic competitions and unattached players, Ntseki acknowledged the realities:
‘It’s the nature of African football today. Despite some players being between clubs, they have shown commitment and we are proud of them for representing the country.’
South Africa’s captain Neo Maema, brimming with anticipation, emphasized the opportunity that lies ahead:
‘This is a unique platform for us. We want to enjoy the moment but also compete at the highest level. Our goal is to win the tournament and we are ready.’
Later in the evening, all eyes will be on the Uganda Cranes as they look to bounce back from their humbling 3-0 loss to Algeria. Facing a Guinea side that edged Niger 1-0 in their opener, this match is nothing short of a must-win for the hosts.
Coach Morley Byekwaso is under no illusions about the stakes:
‘We are under pressure, no doubt. But we have worked on our mistakes and are fully focused on Guinea. We need to respond, and we are determined to do so.’
Drawing on their previous World Cup qualifier win over Guinea, Byekwaso remains cautiously optimistic:
‘We beat them months ago, but this is a different context and team. Only a few players from that game are still here. We have to earn this one afresh.’
On the fans walking out during the Algeria defeat, the coach urged renewed support:
‘We need our supporters back. We ask them to believe in us.’
Third-choice captain and dependable defender Rogers Torach echoed the coach’s positivity, expressing the squad’s readiness and determination to turn things around.
‘The team is fired up and focused. We know what is at stake and we are not dwelling on the past. Everyone is ready to fight for the badge. We want to make our fans proud and keep our dream alive,’ said Torach.
Meanwhile, Guinea coach Souleymane Camara knows a second win would secure early qualification and is keen to maintain focus.
‘We are building momentum. A 1-0 win again would be fine — it’s the points that matter. Algeria may be favourites, but we’re here to compete.’
While reluctant to reveal tactical secrets, Camara exuded quiet confidence in his squad depth and adaptability:
‘We made key changes against Niger, and they worked well. That shows we have options. No injuries, all players are available and focused.’
Asked about Uganda’s earlier win over Guinea in qualifiers, Camara waved off any talk of revenge:
‘That was a different time, different team. We are here with one objective — to give our best and advance.’
Guinea’s experienced player Ibrahima Sory Sankhon reinforced the team’s mental readiness:
‘We know the atmosphere will be charged, but we are prepared for it. We have to stay focused and correct the small mistakes.’
The Uganda Cranes are determined to reignite their campaign at the ongoing TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 with a spirited response against Guinea in their second Group C encounter, set for Friday night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Despite a tough start in the tournament with a 3-0 loss to North African giants Algeria, the Cranes remain focused and upbeat about their chances of bouncing back and bringing joy to the passionate home crowd.
With three group games still to play, optimism remains high in the Cranes camp as they aim to rewrite history and finally break their long-standing CHAN group stage jinx.
The biennial tournament—co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania offers Uganda a unique opportunity to advance past the group stages for the first time in their CHAN history, and the players are embracing that challenge with renewed spirit and belief.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso remained positive and confident that his charges are ready to step up.
‘We’ve put the first game behind us. Football has its ups and downs, but what matters is how you respond. The team is motivated, and we’re ready to give everything tomorrow,’ Byekwaso stated. ‘We have addressed the key areas where we fell short, and the boys are in a good place mentally. We believe we can make the country proud again.’
Coach Byekwaso also appealed to fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing the power of a united home crowd.
‘Our supporters mean everything to us. Yes, the first result was disappointing, but we urge fans to return in big numbers. We are still in this fight together and their energy will lift the players. We promise to give them something to cheer about.’
The coach noted a few injury concerns with midfielder Emmanuel Anyama and Marvin Youngman being assessed for fitness, but confirmed the rest of the squad is fully prepared.
Third-choice captain and dependable defender Rogers Torach echoed the coach’s positivity, expressing the squad’s readiness and determination to turn things around.
‘The team is fired up and focused. We know what is at stake and we are not dwelling on the past. Everyone is ready to fight for the badge. We want to make our fans proud and keep our dream alive,’ said Torach.
Uganda’s last meeting with Guinea ended in a 1-0 win for the Cranes during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, a result that adds to the team’s belief as they prepare to face familiar opponents on Friday night under the Namboole lights.
The team trained today at Mandela National Stadium training pitch at 10:15 AM.
Uganda Cranes midfielders Abdu Karim Watambala and Joel Sserunjogi have rallied their teammates to regroup and respond positively after a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Algeria in their opening Group C match of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Monday night.
The Cranes were undone by a clinical Algerian side in front of their home fans, leaving them with no room for error as they prepare to face Guinea on Friday at the same venue in a must-win fixture. Guinea opened their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Niger.
Joel Sserunjogi, who played the full 90 minutes against the Desert Foxes, admitted the team fell short of their expectations but remains confident they will bounce back.
‘The game didn’t go as we planned, we made some mistakes as the game was going on but we’ve worked on them. We want to win our next game and if we get the results, everything will be sorted. We picked a lot of positives against Algeria which will help us going forward,’ Sserunjogi noted.
His midfield counterpart Abdu Karim Watambala, who replaced Jude Ssemugabi at the start of the second half, injected life into Uganda’s attack with energy and intent. Despite the result, Watambala is optimistic about turning things around.
‘I have to drive the team in front and I think in the first half we lacked the force to go forward and creativity, so the coaches brought me on. When I got the opportunity, I was like, ‘Let me try to make something happen in the second half and push the team forward so that we can get a goal.’ Unfortunately, it didn’t happen but we are looking up to the next game to improve and avoid mistakes we did. Our target is to get out of the group and we believe we can achieve it,’ he said.
The Cranes now sit bottom of Group C but know that a win against Guinea will reignite their qualification hopes going into the final group match against Niger. Coach Morley Byekwaso and his technical team are expected to fine-tune their approach as they chase a crucial three points on home soil.
