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Kampala, Uganda – August 8, 2025 – The Mandela National Stadium was electric as the Uganda Cranes win a resounding 3-0 results over Guinea in a pivotal Group C match of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. Coming off a 3-0 loss to Algeria in their opening match, the co-hosts responded with a commanding performance, reigniting their hopes of advancing past the group stage for the first time in their CHAN history.
Uganda Cranes Soar with a Clinical Performance
Under the guidance of head coach Morley Byekwaso, the Uganda Cranes showcased resilience and tactical discipline in front of a passionate home crowd. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when SC Villa’s Reagan Mpande headed in a precise cross from Joel Sserunjogi, giving Uganda a 1-0 lead and sending the Namboole faithful into raptures. The Cranes maintained their intensity, dominating possession and creating several chances, though they missed opportunities to extend their lead before halftime.
The second half saw Uganda further assert their dominance. In the 61st minute, a VAR review confirmed a foul on Vipers SC star Allan Okello inside the penalty area, leading to a penalty kick. Okello stepped up and confidently dispatched the ball high into the right side of the net, beyond the reach of Guinea’s goalkeeper, doubling Uganda’s lead to 2-0. The third goal, which sealed the emphatic victory, came later in the match, though specific details on the scorer and timing are not fully reported in available sources. The Cranes’ defense, led by the experienced Mukundane, held firm against Guinea’s attempts to mount a comeback, ensuring a clean sheet and a comprehensive 3-0 win.
Guinea, who had started the tournament with a 1-0 win over Niger, struggled to find their rhythm. Despite making three substitutions to shift the momentum, they were unable to breach Uganda’s resolute backline, leaving them vulnerable to the hosts’ counterattacks. The result marked a significant setback for Guinea’s hope of securing early qualification to the knockout stage.
VAR Plays a Pivotal Role in CHAN 2024
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system played a crucial role in shaping the match’s outcome. The penalty awarded to Uganda in the 61st minute followed a VAR review that confirmed a foul on Allan Okello in the box, a decision that swung the momentum firmly in Uganda’s favor.
Additionally, a potential penalty for Guinea was overturned by VAR, further highlighting the technology’s impact on ensuring fair play. Coach Byekwaso praised the use of VAR, stating, “It was a critical moment, and the right call was made. It gave us the confidence to push forward.” Guinea’s coach, Souleymane Camara, acknowledged the challenge of facing a motivated home side but refrained from disputing the VAR decisions, focusing instead on his team’s need to regroup.
Also Read: Kenya Secures Hard-Fought 1–1 Draw Against Angola in CHAN 2024 Despite Early Red Card
VAR’s influence extended beyond this match, as seen in other CHAN 2024 fixtures. For instance, in Kenya’s 1-0 win over DR Congo on August 3, VAR overturned a potential goal for the Congolese, preserving Kenya’s clean sheet. These instances underscore VAR’s growing role in African football, ensuring accuracy in high-stakes moments while sparking debate among fans about its impact on the game’s flow.
Group C and the Current Standings in CHAN 2024
Group C remains fiercely competitive, with Algeria leading the pack after their 3-0 victory over Uganda on August 4, courtesy of goals from Ayoub Ghezala, Abderrahmane Meziane, and Sofiane Bayazid. Guinea, despite their loss, remain in contention following their earlier 1-0 win over Niger, with Alhassane Bangoura earning Man of the Match honors. South Africa, who faced Algeria earlier on August 8, and Niger, who play Uganda next, complete the five-team group, with only two teams advancing to the knockout stage.
What This Win Means for Uganda as CHAN 2024 Co-Host
The 3-0 victory over Guinea keeps Uganda’s knockout stage aspirations alive, providing a significant boost to their confidence and standings in Group C. The Cranes now turn their attention to their next match against Niger on August 11 at Namboole, a fixture that could prove decisive in their quest to break their historical group stage barrier. Guinea, meanwhile, faces a critical clash against Algeria on August 15, needing a strong response to keep their tournament hopes intact.
As CHAN 2024 unfolds under the “Pamoja” theme of unity, co-hosts Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania continue to showcase East Africa’s footballing passion and potential. With VAR ensuring precision and the group stages delivering intense battles, the tournament promises more drama and excitement as teams vie for continental glory. For the latest updates on CHAN 2024, visit www.cafonline.com.
