Uganda Cranes Host Bafana Bafana in AFCON Qualifier: A Battle for Group Supremacy

The highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Uganda Cranes and South Africa‘s Bafana Bafana took place on November 15, 2024, at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. Despite both teams having already secured their spots in the 2025 AFCON, the match held significant importance as it determined which team would claim the top spot in Group K[5].

Uganda, with 10 points, was looking to maintain their lead in the group, while South Africa, with 8 points, aimed to overtake them. The head-to-head record favored South Africa, with two wins and a draw in their last three meetings against Uganda[3].

The match was marked by the absence of key players for Bafana Bafana, including Themba Zwane, Lyle Foster, and Sphephelo Sithole, all due to injuries. Coach Hugo Broos was expected to give some younger players, such as Relebohile Mofokeng, a chance to start and gain valuable experience.

Uganda’s coach, Paul Put, was likely to field his trusted regulars, including goalkeeper Ismail Watenga, Kenneth Ssemakula, Abdu Aziz Kayondo, captain Khalid Aucho, and Taddeo Lwanga. The Cranes were on a four-match unbeaten streak and were determined to capitalize on their home advantage.

The match was broadcast live on various platforms, including SABC Plus and SABC 2, and fans could also follow the action through live text commentary on GOAL‘s website.

Given the recent form of both teams, with Bafana Bafana having gone nine games without a loss and Uganda on a four-match unbeaten streak, the encounter was expected to be closely contested and intense[5].