Kampala, Uganda: Uganda’s quest for a historic quarterfinal place at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) faces a stern test as they prepare to face South Africa in the crucial Group C decider on Monday, August 18, without key midfielders Joel Sserunjogi and, most likely, Enock Ssebagala.
Sserunjogi, who scored in Uganda Cranes’ 2-0 win over Niger at Mandela National Stadium on Monday, is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards in three matches.
The KCCA FC midfielder’s absence leaves a significant gap in the team’s engine room, having been instrumental in creating chances, including his assist for Reagan Mpande’s goal in Uganda’s opening 3-0 victory against Guinea.
Meanwhile, his midfield compatriot Enock Ssebagala, who has started every match for the Cranes during CHAN 2024, is also likely to be sidelined after sustaining a muscle injury during the Niger game. His fitness remains uncertain, leaving Head Coach Morley Byekwaso with a headache of selections.
Together with Abdu Karim Watambala, the duo had established strong midfield chemistry over the last two matches, and their imminent absence threatens to disrupt the team’s rhythm ahead of a game that could decide who advances to the tournament’s last eight.
Speaking to the media after the Niger clash, Coach Byekwaso signaled plans for holding closed-door friendlies during the week to identify suitable replacements and fine-tune tactics before the showdown with South Africa on Monday.
Group C action returns on Friday when Niger take on South Africa, while Algeria, who rested during Monday’s fixture, face Guinea, with both games being defining moments for the last two bottom-placed teams, facing imminent exit from the tournament, should they lose on the night.
Current Group Standings (Matches played)
1. Uganda 6pts (3)
2. Algeria 4pts (2)
3. South Africa 4 (2)
4. Guinea 3 (3)
5. Niger 0 (2)
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