- Uganda 3-3 South Africa
- Niger 0-0 Algeria
Mandela National Stadium was a storm of tears, prayers, and deafening chants on Monday night as Uganda Cranes did the unthinkable, qualifying for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals for the first time.
For years, Uganda’s CHAN story had been heartbreak and early exits. But on August 18, 2025, under the floodlights of Namboole, everything changed. Emotions ran wild, and by the end of 90 breathless minutes, the nation had a new chapter of glory.
The Cranes fought back to draw 3-3 with South Africa in a game that will live long in memory. Bafana Bafana led 3-1 with only minutes left, and fans were already filing out in despair. But Uganda refused to bow.
Jude Ssemugabi had given the hosts the lead in the 31st minute after a swift counter sparked by Reagan Mpande and Patrick Jonah Kakande.
Then came the collapse, Ramahlwe Mphalele leveled in the 52nd, Thabiso Kutumela struck five minutes later, and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo added a third with seven minutes left. It seemed over.
Then came the miracle, Ivan Ahimbisibwe was bundled down in the box, and Allan Okello buried the penalty with ice-cold composure to make it 3-2.
The crowd roared back to life. In stoppage time, VAR spotted a South African handball.
Rogers Torach stepped up, nerves of steel, and drilled the equalizer. The explosion of noise shook Namboole to its core.
At the final whistle, Uganda had secured not just a point, but history. Coach Morley Byekwaso and assistant Fred Muhumuza had finally led the Cranes past the group stage after years of frustration.
Players dropped to their knees in thankful prayer. Fans wept, danced and others collapsed, Uganda had arrived, no longer underachievers but quarterfinalists at last.
