CHAN 2025: Uganda Stage Thrilling Comeback to Reach First-Ever Quarter-Finals, Algeria Also Advance

Uganda produced a sensational late comeback to draw 3-3 with South Africa on Monday, securing a historic place in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

The Cranes, who had never beaten South Africa before, entered the match at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala needing a win to guarantee qualification from Group C. They looked in control early on, dominating possession and creating several chances before Jude Ssemugabi opened the scoring with a powerful strike just after the half-hour mark.

However, South Africa responded swiftly after the break. Veteran Amazulu defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalised in the 52nd minute, and six minutes later Thabiso Kutumela put Bafana Bafana ahead. In the 83rd minute, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo extended South Africa’s lead to 3-1, seemingly ending Uganda’s hopes.

But the Cranes refused to surrender. With just two minutes of normal time remaining, captain Allen Okello converted from the penalty spot after Ivan Ahimbisibwe was fouled in the box. Then, deep into injury time, VAR spotted a South African handball in the area. Rogers Torach stepped up and smashed home the resulting penalty, sealing a dramatic 3-3 draw and sending the home crowd into raptures.

The point proved enough for Uganda to top Group C with seven points. Algeria, despite being held to a goalless draw by a 10-man Niger at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, advanced to the last eight as well, finishing level on six points with South Africa but progressing thanks to a superior goal difference.

Uganda’s qualification means all three co-hosts — Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania — have now advanced to the quarter-finals, an unprecedented achievement in CHAN history.