By Justine Nalubega
Uganda’s national football team, the Cranes, has booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to be hosted in Morocco. The qualification was secured after South Sudan’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Congo Brazzaville, a result that also qualified South Africa for the tournament.
Uganda now tops Group K with 10 points, followed closely by South Africa with 8 points. South Sudan, with 3 points, and Congo Brazzaville, with 4, are eliminated from the race regardless of their results in the final games.
The Cranes will face South Africa this Friday at 4 pm at Namboole’s Nelson Mandela Stadium, where both teams will compete for the top position in the group. The last clash between Uganda and South Africa ended in a 2-2 draw, with Rogers Mato and Denis Omedi finding the net for the Cranes.
This qualification marks Uganda’s return to AFCON since their 2019 appearance in Egypt under coach Sebastian Desabre. Now under the guidance of coach Paul Put, Uganda will be making their 8th appearance at the continental tournament in what will be the 35th edition of AFCON.
This achievement adds momentum and excitement for Ugandan football fans, with hopes high for a strong performance in Morocco.
Photos: Kamira Asha
