Bevis Mugabi was the man of the night after his decisive goal sent Uganda Cranes closer to the 2025 AFCON qualifiers securing a win 1-0 against South Sudan on 11th October, at Mandela National Stadium.
Under the floodlights Bevis Mugabi scored an important in the 47th minute when the second half was only played two minutes.
The striker’s only goal lifted Uganda to 7points after today’s win. The more points are needed for the Cranes to secure a place in AFCON that will be held in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026.
As early as the game had just kicked off the head coach Paul Put made changes in his line up leaving Elio Capradossi out and bringing in Halid Lwaliwa and also Jude Ssemugabi replaced Muhammad Shaban.
In the first minutes, Denis Omedi was denied a chance as he approached the goal area and later on Rogers Mayo’s free kick was defended by South Sudan.
In the 35th minute, South Sudan got their best chance from Thomas Magor but Uganda’s goalkeeper Isima Watenga denied him a chance ending the first half goalless.
After the break, the head coach introduced Bobosi Byaruhanga and Allan Okello. These two replaced Travis Mutyaba and Ronald Ssekiganda.
Immediately chances were created when Allan Okello’s cross found Ssemugabi unfortunately Juma Jenaro Amuka South Sudan’s goalkeeper saved it.
In less than a minute Bevis Mugabi reacted and tap in the rebound that resulted into a goal sending the crowd in celebrations.
In the 62nd minute, South Sudan made a double change when Atendele Mawa Christopher Lokosang came in for Gordon Samuel Taban and Madit Mayor Madit replaced Wahab Gadaffi.
But Uganda Cranes stood strong even though South Sudan had introduced new opponents to boost the game.
This is Uganda’s second victory at home after defeating Congo Brazzaville 2-0 and this leaves the Cranes with 7points.
In less than three days, Uganda Cranes will face South Sudan at Juba International Stadium.
