Uganda’s national football team, the Cranes, are celebrating an early ticket to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON2025), courtesy of a thrilling 3-2 win by South Sudan against Congo in Juba.

A decisive 85th-minute goal by South Sudan’s striker Data Elly sealed Uganda’s qualification, lifting the pressure ahead of their upcoming clash against South Africa slated for Friday, November 15, 2024.

In a tough showdown at Juba Stadium, South Sudan battled back to secure a dramatic 3-2 win over Congo, a result that unexpectedly granted Uganda Cranes a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Congo’s forward Cedric Ibayi initially dominated, scoring twice within the first 35 minutes. However, South Sudan’s resilience turned the tide, with a decisive 85th-minute goal from striker Elly sealing Uganda’s qualification.

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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 closes the door on Congo’s qualification hopes, as they needed a win to stay in contention. The Cranes will now face South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at Mandela National Stadium-Namboole on Friday, both teams competing for the top spot in the group, though both have already secured qualification.