Kampala, Uganda: Uganda Cranes are set for a historic showdown with reigning champions Senegal in the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Mandela National Stadium on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
The fixture was confirmed on Tuesday after the completion of Group D matches in Zanzibar, where Senegal drew 0-0 with Sudan at Amaan Stadium. Despite finishing level on five points, Sudan topped the group on goal difference, leaving Senegal to face Uganda as group runners-up.
For Uganda, this is a watershed moment, as it is the first time in history that the East African country has reached the quarterfinal stage of CHAN since the tournament was introduced.
Uganda’s qualification came dramatically on Monday when the co-hosts staged a remarkable comeback in a 3-3 draw against South Africa at Mandela National Stadium. South Africa led 3-1 until the 88th minute, but Uganda clawed back with two late penalties to secure the crucial point.
Jude Ssemugabi gave Uganda the lead in the 31st minute before South Africa struck back through Ramahlwe Mphalele (52nd), Thabiso Kutumela (57th), and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo (83rd).
With the visitors cruising, Ivan Ahimbisibwe won a penalty that Allan Okello converted in the 88th minute. In a dramatic twist, a stoppage-time VAR review confirmed a handball in South Africa’s box.
Rogers Torach stepped up and converted the penalty, sparking wild celebrations as Uganda booked a quarterfinal berth for the first time.
Elsewhere, Sudan will play Algeria in another quarterfinal, while Kenya faces Madagascar in Nairobi, and Tanzania takes on Morocco in Dar es Salaam.
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