Namboole, Uganda: Allan Okello once again proved why he is Uganda’s most valuable asset at the moment as he led the Cranes to a commanding 2-0 victory over Niger in their CHAN 2024 Group C clash, moving to the top of the group with six points from three matches.
The match, played at the Mandela National Stadium, saw the SC Vipers forward open the scoring with a headed rebound after his penalty kick had been saved by Niger keeper Djibrilla Kassali in the 25th minute.
Okello’s creativity and relentless drive proved crucial yet again when he teed up Joel Sserunjongi to curl home Uganda’s second and seal the win against a spirited Niger side whose threats at goal were commandingly thwarted by BUL FC’s Joel Mutakubwa in the match sticks, who turned out to be the eventual man of the match winner.
The victory elevates Uganda to six points atop Group C, placing them in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages and will next face a crucial showdown against CHAN powerhouse South Africa as they aim to maintain their winning streak.
Starting Lineups
Uganda Cranes Starting XI: Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Herbert Achai, Hilary Mukundane, Rogers Torach (C), Gavin Kizito, Enock Ssebagala, Joel Sserunjogi, Allan Okello, Jude Ssemugabi, Abdu Karim Watambala, Reagan Mpande
Substitutes: Denis Kiggundu (GK), Nicholas Mwere, Elvis Ngonde, Usama Arafat, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Yunus Junior Sentamu, Lazaro Muhindo, Chrispas Kusiima (GK), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza, Gideon Odongo, Arnold Odong, Patrick Kakande
Niger Starting XI: M.T. Kassali (GK), Adamou, M. Papa, Ridouane, A. Kader, Chamsoudine, Harouna, Abdourahmane, Mohamed (C), Ali N., Latif Goumey
Group C Standings After Today’s Match:
1. Uganda – 6 points (3 matches)
2. Algeria – 4 points (2 matches)
3. South Africa – 4 points (2 matches)
4. Guinea – 3 points (3 matches)
5. Niger – 0 points (2 matches)
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