Byekwaso’s Uganda seek to soar, Ntseki’s Bafana Bafana must win to survive
The Mandela National Stadium will be buzzing on Monday night as Uganda and South Africa square off in the final Group C clash at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
For Uganda, it is a chance to script history on home soil; for South Africa, it is do-or-die.
With a sold-out crowd expected, this showdown has the feel of a continental final before the knockouts have even begun.
Group C on a Knife-Edge
The mathematics are simple but brutal. Uganda top the group with six points, needing just a draw to advance.
South Africa sit a point behind on four, meaning victory is their only path forward. Algeria, still lurking with three points, face Niger and could pounce if the Kampala clash produces a decisive result in their favour.
Uganda’s campaign has been defined by resilience. After losing their opener to Algeria, Morley Byekwaso’s side roared back with wins over Niger and South Africa, building momentum with defensive steel and the energy of a passionate home crowd.
South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have taken a different route. They opened with a draw against Niger before edging Algeria 2-1 in a must-win encounter. Now, they face the hosts with everything on the line.
Uganda’s Historic Opportunity
Coach Morley Byekwaso knows what is at stake: “We know it will be a very tough game, but we are ready. This is our moment to make history. We are leading the group and want to maintain the solidity that has brought us here.”
Key players have already risen to the occasion. Abdul Karim Watambala has orchestrated midfield battles, while goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa has been pivotal in securing back-to-back clean sheets. .
The absence of Joel Sserunjogi is a blow, but Byekwaso insists squad depth can carry them through.
His message to the nation was simple: “We want to bring joy to our fans and make history. We will play with our hearts.”
South Africa’s Do-or-Die Mission
For Molefi Ntseki, the equation is harsher. “We are fully aware that this is a decisive game. For us, it is a final. The pressure is on Uganda, who are playing at home and are expected to win. We will focus on our strategy and take advantage of transition moments.”
Ntseki has drilled his side in tactical balance, relying on quick breaks and efficiency in front of goal.
He believes his men can draw strength from past battles. “We beat Egypt in Cairo, with passionate fans. We know how to handle the pressure.”
Defender Kwandakwensizwa Mngonyama echoed the determination: “I learned a lot from Onyango. He showed me that discipline and dedication are fundamental. Tomorrow, we want to demonstrate that on the pitch.”
Rivalry and Context
The two sides have met five times in recent years, each claiming two victories with one draw. This first competitive clash on Ugandan soil adds a layer of unpredictability.
For Uganda, the roar of the Kampala crowd could be decisive—but it also comes with weighty expectation.
South Africa, meanwhile, are leaning on experience. The knowledge of overcoming adversity in hostile atmospheres could prove their strongest weapon.
Ntseki was clear: “This is the moment to show our hard work and dedication. We will give everything for our country.”
Tactical Battle to Watch
Uganda are expected to maintain their attacking intent, aiming to force South Africa onto the back foot.
The visitors, however, will try to punish any space left in transition. Efficiency in finishing could be the defining factor in what promises to be a tense chess match on the grass of Mandela National Stadium.
A Contest Beyond the Group
Both teams view this game as more than just a group decider. For Uganda, it is the chance to cement a generation-defining moment in front of their own fans.
For South Africa, it is about survival and pride, fighting to keep their campaign alive against formidable odds.
Whatever the outcome, the final whistle will mark one of the defining moments of CHAN 2024’s group stage.