By 
As the final whistle looms on Group C of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso is rallying his troops for what could be a defining moment in Ugandan football history. With just 90 minutes separating the Cranes from a historic quarterfinal qualification, all eyes will be on Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, where they face South Africa on Monday at 8 PM.
Uganda sit atop Group C with six points from three games a position earned through grit, resilience, and a strong comeback. After suffering a humbling 3-0 loss to Algeria in their opening fixture, the Cranes bounced back impressively with a 3-0 win over Guinea and a solid 2-0 victory against Niger.
But despite needing only a draw to progress, Byekwaso insists that his side is not interested in playing it safe.
“South Africa is a good team, very strong in the final third, but we know what is at stake,” Byekwaso said during the pre-match press conference on Sunday. “We top the table because we worked very hard for it. We want a win regardless. Passing through the humiliation against Algeria and coming back stronger in the next two games shows we are prepared to make history.”
Uganda will, however, have to navigate the decisive fixture without midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. While acknowledging the void left by Sserunjogi, Byekwaso expressed confidence in his squad’s depth and character.
“Missing Joel is challenging, but I trust all the boys. Every player has his moment, and someone will step up to fill the gap,” he noted.
The Cranes have also drawn inspiration from their ever-growing fan base, with Byekwaso urging supporters to fill the stands and back the team in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
“We thank the supporters who have been with us since the start. We call on them to come in big numbers and help us finish what we started.”
With both sides bringing ambition and momentum into the fixture, Monday’s game at Namboole promises high stakes, drama, and potential history. For Byekwaso and his charges, it’s more than just a football match it’s a chance to cement their names in Ugandan football.
