Uganda maintained their promising start to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a 2-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville at the Mandela National Stadium on Monday. The win saw the Cranes move to four points after two matches in Group B.
Despite a string of missed opportunities in the opening stages, the Cranes finally found the breakthrough in the 21st minute, thanks to a moment of brilliance from left-back Aziz Kayondo.
Attempting a cross from the left flank, Kayondo’s delivery took a fortunate curve, deceiving the Congo goalkeeper and curling into the far post to give Uganda a 1-0 lead.
Paul Put’s side dominated possession throughout the first half, creating numerous chances but failing to convert them.
Their control of the match, however, was undeniable, and Congo Brazzaville struggled to mount any serious threat on Uganda’s goal.
Shortly before half-time, Uganda made their first substitution, with Jude Ssemugabi coming on to replace Muhammad Shaban in the 44th minute.
Despite their dominance, the Cranes went into the break with just a one-goal advantage, leaving Congo Brazzaville with a lifeline heading into the second half.
The visiting side made two changes at the start of the second period in an attempt to turn the tide.
Prestige Mboungou and Beni Makouana replaced Mons Bassouamina and Antoine Makoumbou, respectively, as Congo looked for a way back into the game.
However, Uganda continued to control the tempo, rarely allowing Congo Brazzaville any meaningful chances.
In the 60th minute, Uganda’s Denis Omedi, who had scored a stunning goal in their 2-2 draw with South Africa in their opening group match, was shown a yellow card for a clumsy tackle.
Despite the booking, Uganda remained composed and continued to push for a second goal.
The home side finally doubled their lead in the 85th minute when Ssemugabi, who had come on as a substitute, capitalized on Congo’s defensive lapse to slot home and put the result beyond doubt.
His goal sealed the victory and ensured that Uganda remained undefeated after two rounds of the qualifiers.
With the win, Uganda moved to four points in Group B, positioning themselves as strong contenders for a place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Congo Brazzaville, meanwhile, will need to regroup after this setback as they look to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The Cranes will now look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next fixture, with confidence high after an unbeaten start to their AFCON qualifying campaign.
