Uganda vs South Africa Ends 3-3 for CHAN Quarter-Finals

How many goals did the Cranes score against South Africa?

Kampala, August 18, 2025 — In a pulsating match at the Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), the Uganda Cranes produced a historic performance to earn a dramatic 3–3 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, securing their first-ever progression to the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Why Uganda vs South Africa 2025 is Historic Milestone

With the draw, Uganda topped Group C and advanced to the knockout stages of CHAN for the first time in seven attempts. The outcome was also aided by Algeria drawing 0–0 with Niger in the other group match—ensuring the Cranes finished above both Algeria and South Africa on seven points, thanks to superior goal difference.

Match Highlights

First Half: The Early Edge

Uganda began positively, and in the 31st minute, Jude Ssemugabi converted a precision counter-attack pass from Patrick Kakande to give the hosts a well-deserved 1–0 lead into the break.

Second Half: Bafana’s Furious Response

South Africa emerged with renewed energy. In the 52nd minute, Ramahlwe Mphahlele leveled after a VAR review. Six minutes later, Thabiso Kutumela, from a tight angle, nudged them into a 2–1 lead. The visitors seemed confident when Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo unleashed a sensational long-range strike in the 83rd minute, pushing South Africa ahead 3–1.

The Dramatic Comeback

Refusing to relent, Uganda responded quickly. A penalty in the 86th minute—won by Ivan Ahimbisibwe—was calmly dispatched by Allan Okello, reducing the deficit to 3–2.

The real drama unfolded in stoppage time. With the fourth official signaling eight added minutes, Rogers Torach slotted home a second penalty in the 96th minute following a handball by Menzi Masuku. The stadium erupted as Uganda snatched the crucial draw.

What This Means

• Uganda’s Historic Breakthrough: The Cranes, never before in the CHAN knockout stages, defied expectations at home. The result is a milestone not just for the team, but for Ugandan football as a whole.
• South Africa’s Heartbreak: Leading 3–1 with little time left, Bafana Bafana will rue their failure to see out the match and advance.
• Group C Outcome: Final standings—Uganda (7 pts), Algeria (6 pts), South Africa (6 pts).

Context & Build-up

Before this decisive clash, Uganda’s fate was in their hands. On Friday, August 16, Algeria and South Africa both dropped points—boosting the Cranes’ chances of topping the group with a strong finish. Their position was built on consistent group form, including a commanding 2–0 victory over Niger on August 11, where Allan Okello starred with a goal and an assist.

The Stage: Mandela National Stadium

The electric atmosphere at the Mandela National Stadium—renamed for South African icon Nelson Mandela—added gravitas to the occasion. This venue, with a history of tension and triumph between Uganda and South Africa, provided the perfect backdrop for such a momentous match.

In Summary

Uganda’s 3–3 draw with South Africa on August 18, 2025, wasn’t just a match—it was history in motion. From an early lead to a fierce comeback, capped with a stoppage-time penalty, the Cranes delivered a performance that will resonate for years to come.