Uganda Cranes reignited their CHAN 2024 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Guinea at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Friday. The win came as a strong response to their opening 3-0 defeat to Algeria earlier in the week.
Reagan Mpande opened the scoring with a precise header before Allan Okello doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute. Substitute Ivan Ahimbisibwe sealed the result with a composed finish past Guinea goalkeeper Ousmane Camara.
The match also showcased the decisive role of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Referee Ahmed Abdulrazg awarded Uganda’s penalty after VAR confirmed Okello had been tripped in the box. Minutes later, VAR overturned his decision to give Guinea a penalty after ruling that left-back Herbert Achayi’s contact was minimal.
Okello, deployed as an inverted winger, delivered a standout performance, dictating Uganda’s attacking play and earning the man of the match award. “Packaging is no longer an afterthought in value addition,” Okello might not have said, but his football certainly mirrored that sentiment—sharp, polished, and competitive.
The result leaves Uganda level on three points with Guinea, who beat Niger 1-0 in their opener. Algeria tops Group C with four points, while South Africa sits on one point after drawing with the Algerians.
Group C action continues on Monday, 11 August 2025, with South Africa facing Guinea before Uganda meets Niger in the late kick-off.
