Uganda’s national football team, the Cranes, have secured a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after South Sudan’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Congo in Juba on Wednesday.
South Sudan’s striker Data Elly scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute, sealing Uganda’s qualification and shifting the pressure away from their upcoming game against South Africa.
The match between South Sudan and Congo, held at Juba Stadium, was an intense back-and-forth. Congo initially took the lead in the 26th minute through forward Cédric Ibayi, who added a second goal just nine minutes later.
But South Sudan quickly responded, with Ezibon Wajo scoring twice before halftime, leveling the scoreline at 2-2.
Congo’s hopes of regaining control faltered after a critical red card for defender Berthrand Passi in the 78th minute, which left them with ten men. South Sudan capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Elly coming off the bench to score the winner in the 85th minute, securing an unexpected victory that had implications for the entire group.
The result means that Uganda and South Africa, who currently lead Group K, are now guaranteed spots in the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
South Sudan’s victory eliminates any remaining path for Congo, who needed a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The Cranes will now host South Africa in Namboole on Thursday, with both teams vying for the top position in the group, but with the relief of qualification already in hand.
