In a night filled with excitement and optimism, the Uganda Cranes have ignited their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a decisive 2-0 victory over Congo at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The win, witnessed by a near-capacity crowd, marks a significant boost for the Cranes as they top Group K with four points from two matches.
The Cranes showcased their attacking prowess right from the start. Roving left-back Aziz Kayondo broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a stunning strike. Kayondo’s left-footed inswinger, after a dynamic run down the wing, beat Congo’s goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila, striking the far post before nestling in the back of the net.
Six minutes later, Rogers Mato Kassim had an opportunity to extend the lead, but his low drive narrowly missed the target after a neat pass from midfielder Ronald Ssekiganda. Uganda’s goalkeeper Isima Watenga was called into action shortly thereafter, making a crucial save against a powerful header from Congo’s defender Destin, who had connected with a well-placed free-kick.
The match faced a brief interruption just before halftime when stadium lights went out momentarily, but play resumed quickly. Congo’s Silvere Ganvoula Mboussy came close to equalizing, but his effort was off target, keeping Uganda’s lead intact.
The second half saw Cranes coach Joseph Paul Put making strategic substitutions. Shaban Muhammad was replaced by Kitara forward Jude Ssemugabi, and further tactical changes were made with Allan Okello and Halid Lwaliwa coming on for Travis Mutyaba and Elio Capradossi respectively. The adjustments paid off as Ssemugabi sealed the win with a goal in the 85th minute. Okello provided a precise assist from the right, and Ssemugabi’s calm finish ensured the Cranes’ dominance.
The victory places Uganda Cranes at the top of Group K, surpassing Congo, who had previously edged out Sudan 1-0. South Africa trails with one point, and Sudan remains scoreless.
Team Line-ups:
Uganda Cranes:
- Starting XI: Isima Watenga (GK), Kenneth Ssemakula, Abdu Azizi Kayondo, Bevis Kristofer Mugabi Kizito, Elio Capradossi, Aucho Khalid (C), Ronald Ssekiganda, Denis Omedi, Travis Mutyaba, Muhammad Shaban, Rogers Kassim Mato
- Substitutes: Alionzi Nafian Legason (GK), Charles Lukwago (GK), Jude Ssemugabi, Isaac Muleme, Stephen Desse Mukwala, Hope Calvin Ddamulira Kabuye, Allan Okello, Joel Sserunjogi, Elvis Bwomono, Joackim Ojera, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Halidi Lwaliwa
Congo:
- Starting XI: Pavelh Ndzila (GK), Morgan Paul Poaty, Silvere Ganvoula Mboussy (C), Ryan Maxime Destin Bidounga, Bryan Jacques Passi, Pontaillier Jose Fred Dembi, Mons Rogeani Andre Bassousmina, Chandrel Geraud Massanga Matondo, Merveil Valthy Streeker Ndockyt, Antoine Makoumbou, Yhoan Many Andzouana
- Substitutes: Christoffer Henri Mafoumbi (GK), Owen Cesaire Rodrique Matimbou (GK), Prince Vinny Ibara Doniama, Vieljeux Prestige Mboungou, Romaric Prestige Etou Thomaso, Glid Geordon Otanga Mvouo, Francis Nzaba, Beni Makouana, William Mbongo Hondermarck, Elie Andzouono, Janard Berlohd Mbemba Kambamba
With this impressive performance, the Uganda Cranes have not only renewed their AFCON hopes but have also energized their supporters, setting the stage for a thrilling qualification campaign.
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