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Uganda Cranes wrote a new chapter in their football history on Monday, qualifying for the quarterfinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the very first time. The achievement came after a dramatic 3-3 draw against South Africa at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

From trailing 3-1 with just minutes to play, the Cranes mounted a stunning late comeback that sent fans into wild celebrations. The result ensured Uganda finished top of Group C, edging past Algeria, who were held to a goalless draw by Niger in Nairobi.

Jude Ssemugabi had given Uganda the lead in the 31st minute with a composed strike that lifted the home supporters. However, South Africa responded strongly after the break—Ramahlwe Mphalele equalized in the 52nd minute before Thabiso Kutumela and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo scored to hand Bafana Bafana a 3-1 advantage with only seven minutes remaining.

Just when hopes seemed lost, the Cranes fought back. In the 88th minute, Ivan Ahimbisibwe won a penalty that Allan Okello confidently converted. Deep into stoppage time, a VAR review confirmed a South African handball, and Rogers Torach coolly slotted home the spot-kick that sealed Uganda’s historic progression.

Head coach Morley Byekwaso praised his team’s spirit and steady growth throughout the tournament.

“We have been improving with every match. Our league is not at the level of many others, but the players are learning and applying instructions. At the start, we lost, and it hurt us, but we kept the belief. God has done it, and now we lead Group C,” Byekwaso said.

He also singled out Allan Okello, who has been in superb form with three goals to his name.

“Allan is our playmaker. We first tried him centrally and later pushed him wide, and he has delivered in both roles,” the coach noted.

Uganda’s campaign had begun on a tough note with a 0-3 defeat to Algeria. However, the Cranes bounced back impressively, defeating Guinea (3-0) and Niger (2-0) before their thrilling draw with South Africa.

The Cranes will next face the runners-up from Group D—either Sudan, Senegal, or Congo—in the quarterfinals set for Saturday, August 23, at Mandela National Stadium.

As the final whistle blew, jubilant fans in Namboole erupted in celebrations, marking a milestone moment for Ugandan football on the continental stage.