Uganda Cranes Edge South Sudan with Narrow Victory at Namboole
The Uganda Cranes triumphed over South Sudan with a 1-0 victory at the Mandela National Stadium, maintaining their hopes for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification. Bevis Mugabi was the standout performer, scoring the only goal shortly after halftime. Despite South Sudan’s late attempts to equalize, Uganda’s defense held firm, securing three vital points in their AFCON qualifying campaign.
The Uganda Cranes secured a narrow 1-0 victory over South Sudan at the Mandela National Stadium, reinforcing their undefeated home record. This crucial win was highlighted by Bevis Mugabi’s goal shortly after halftime, which assisted in keeping Uganda’s hopes for qualification to the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament intact. Throughout the first half, Uganda exhibited dominance but struggled to break down a resilient South Sudan defense, which effectively neutralized efforts from Jude Ssemugabi, Denis Omedi, and Mato Rogers Khassim. The breakthrough came just two minutes into the second half, as Mugabi capitalized on a rebound after a series of well-coordinated plays initiated by substitute Allan Okello. Following a short corner—which Okello executed brilliantly—Omedi returned the pass to Okello who then sent a perfectly placed inswinger towards Ssemugabi. Although Ssemugabi’s header was parried back into play by South Sudan’s goalkeeper, Juma Amuk, Mugabi was strategically positioned to score, prompting fervent celebrations amongst the home supporters. As the match neared its conclusion, South Sudan attempted to equalize, with Halid Lwaliwa ensuring the victory with a decisive clearance off the line during a set piece. Uganda’s disciplined defensive display thwarted South Sudan’s late efforts, allowing the Cranes to secure all three points. Consequently, both Uganda and South Africa now share the lead in Group K, each accumulating seven points, while Congo and South Sudan remain at three and zero points, respectively. The two teams are set to meet again on Tuesday at Juba Stadium. Uganda’s starting XI included: Isima Watenga (GK), Kenneth Semakula, Aziiz Kayondo, Halid Lwaliwa, Bevis Mugabi, Aucho Khalid (Captain), Ronald Ssekiganda, Travis Mutyaba, Jude Ssemugabi, Denis Omedi, and Mato Rogers Khassim. The bench featured Nafian Alionzi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Allan Okello, Taddeo Lwanga, Charles Lukwago, Calvin Kabuye, Shafik Nana Kwikiriza, Saidi Mayanja, Isaac Muleme, Gavin Kizito, and Arnold Odong.
The Uganda Cranes have a storied history in African football, and their recent match against South Sudan was a part of the qualification campaign for the prestigious 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Mandela National Stadium has been a stronghold for the Cranes, allowing them to build confidence and success on home soil. The match showcased both teams’ tactical approaches, with Uganda seeking to maintain control of their home advantage while South Sudan aimed to disrupt their rhythm and secure a vital away point during the qualification stage. The significance of this victory extends beyond the three points, as it bolsters Uganda’s position in Group K of the qualification round, impacting their journey toward participation in a major continental tournament.
The Uganda Cranes’ hard-fought victory against South Sudan highlights their defensive resilience and offensive capabilities, particularly through Bevis Mugabi’s crucial goal. With this win, Uganda remains well-positioned in their AFCON qualification campaign, sharing the top of Group K with South Africa. The Cranes will seek to build on this momentum in their upcoming rematch against South Sudan. Their display of teamwork and tactical execution underscores the potential for continued success as they aspire to return to the AFCON tournament.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
