Uganda and Algeria advanced to the quarter-finals of CHAN 2024 after a dramatic final round in Group C that saw South Africa eliminated despite a thrilling six-goal contest in Kampala.
In front of a packed Mandela National Stadium, Uganda fought back from the brink to earn a 3-3 draw against South Africa, a result that sealed top spot in the group for the hosts.
South Africa, who were seconds away from qualification, were left devastated as Uganda struck deep into stoppage time.
The evening had begun brightly for the Cranes when Jude Ssemugabi opened the scoring in the 31st minute, sending the home supporters into raptures.
That goal temporarily pushed Uganda into first place, but South Africa responded with a dominant spell after the interval.
Ramahlwe Mphahlele equalised in the 52nd minute, before Kutumela Thabiso fired the visitors ahead six minutes later.
When Ndlondlo added a third in the 83rd minute, Bafana Bafana appeared destined for the quarter-finals.
Yet Uganda refused to surrender. Allan Okello pulled one back from the penalty spot, keeping belief alive, and in the 96th minute Rogers Torach held his nerve to convert a second penalty, sparking wild celebrations across the stadium.
The final whistle confirmed Uganda’s place at the top of Group C with seven points, while South Africa, despite collecting six points, fell agonisingly short on goal difference.
In the group’s other decisive match, Algeria were frustrated in a 0-0 stalemate against Niger.
The Fennecs dominated possession, enjoying nearly 70% of the ball and registering 11 attempts on goal, but a resilient Niger defence held firm throughout.
The task became even harder for Niger when Ibrahim Djingarey received a second yellow card in the 77th minute, reducing his side to ten men.
Algeria pressed relentlessly in the closing stages, but were denied by a series of brave blocks and crucial saves from the Niger goalkeeper.
While the draw denied Algeria the chance to top the group, it was enough to see them through in second place on six points, edging South Africa thanks to their superior goal difference.
Niger, meanwhile, departed the competition without a win but earned respect for their disciplined performance against one of the tournament’s strongest sides.
Final Group C standings:
- Uganda – 7 points
- Algeria – 6 points
- South Africa – 6 points
- Guinea – 4 points
- Niger – 2 points
The results mean Uganda and Algeria progress to the knockout stage, while South Africa exit the tournament with pride but without reward.
