The Uganda Cranes are gearing up for a crucial CHAN 2024 quarterfinal match against defending champions Senegal at Mandela National Stadium on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 PM.
Coach Morley Byekwaso and midfielder Joel Sserunjogi have called on Ugandans to rally behind the team as they tackle the knockout-stage challenge.
Byekwaso, who led Uganda to the top of Group C with seven points, acknowledged the pressure of playing at home but stressed that the squad is mentally and physically prepared. He highlighted that minimizing errors will be vital, as any mistake could prove costly, and encouraged nationwide support to strengthen the team’s morale.
Uganda secured a quarterfinal spot after a campaign that included wins against Guinea and Niger, a loss to Algeria, and a dramatic draw with South Africa.
Sserunjogi, who missed the final group match due to injury, returns to inject energy and creativity into midfield. He described the encounter with Senegal as “do-or-die” and emphasized the importance of delivering for the country, urging fans and stakeholders to stand behind the team.
“It’s such a great opportunity for me and my fellow players to represent the country. We can’t take it for granted, so we have to deliver. We know we’re playing Senegal, the defending champions, which makes it a do-or-die game,” said Sserunjogi.
Senegal, runners-up in Group D, arrived in Kampala on Wednesday night ahead of the game and Mandela National Stadium is expected to be at full capacity, creating a charged atmosphere for what promises to be an exciting match.
Meanwhile, regional rivals Tanzania and Kenya were eliminated from CHAN 2024 this evening. Tanzania fell 1-0 to Morocco, while Kenya was knocked out by Madagascar after a dramatic penalty shootout, 4-3, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. With both East African teams now out, Uganda carries the mantle for the region, adding extra motivation for the Cranes to advance to the semifinals.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on the Cranes to capitalize on home support, maintain focus, and secure a historic victory that could define their CHAN 2024 journey. Fans are urged to cheer passionately but responsibly, supporting the team in a way that upholds sportsmanship and discipline.