Bafana Bafana Eliminated from CHAN After Uganda Fightback in Dramatic 3-3 Draw
- Bafana Bafana were eliminated from the CAF African Nations Championship after a dramatic 3-3 draw with Uganda in Kampala
- South Africa surrendered a 3-1 lead in the closing stages, conceding two late penalties that sealed their exit
- The result left Uganda top of Group C, while Bafana finished third and failed to advance to the quarter-finals
Bafana Bafana were sensationally eliminated from the CAF African Nations Championship after conceding two late penalties in a dramatic 3-3 draw with Uganda at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Monday 18 August.
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South Africa needed a victory to guarantee progression or rely on Niger defeating Algeria in the other Group C clash. Instead, Uganda’s comeback ensured they finished top, while Bafana ended third and exited the competition.
Molefi Ntseki's men had shown resilience after falling behind. Patrick Kakande set up Jude Ssemugabi to fire the hosts into the lead in the 32nd minute. Still, Ramahlwe Mphahlele volleyed home Kwanda Mngonyama’s knockdown shortly after the restart to level matters.
The momentum swung further in South Africa’s favour when Thabiso Kutumela netted his third goal of the tournament with a well-taken strike in the 59th minute. Confidence grew, and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo added a spectacular long-range effort from 30 yards to make it 3-1 with just seven minutes remaining.
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Bafana Bafana capitulated in the closing stages
However, Bafana’s defensive frailties resurfaced in the closing stages. Allan Okello reduced the deficit from the penalty spot following Kegan Johannes’ foul, before a stoppage-time handball gifted Uganda another spot-kick.
Rogers Torach calmly converted to seal the draw, sparking celebrations for the home side and heartbreak for South Africa.
The result capped a disappointing campaign for Bafana, who drew with Algeria and edged Guinea earlier in the tournament but ultimately fell short when it mattered most.
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What did Ntseki say after the match?
Ntseki was proud of his despite the exit from the tournament.
“We brought professionals to the tournament and they showed their professionalism and commitment, understanding they are playing for their country.
“In a game of football, there are three results, and unfortunately, we got the result we did not want. We wanted a win, but it didn't happen. As for the future, the country is proud of their performances and I can’t fault any of them in terms of commitment.”
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Ntseki said it was not a loss since the match had ended 3-3 and the players had given their best. He admitted that the disappointment was in leading 3-1 and then allowing Uganda to fight back for a draw.
The coach explained that tactically, his side had executed the plan as intended, with the goals they scored reflecting their analysis and preparation for the game. He added that, although they scored three goals, Uganda managed to pull two back late on to level matters.
Ntseki also noted that VAR sometimes appeared to favour the opposition, but stressed that they respected its decisions.
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Benni McCarthy makes history in Kenya
Briefly News previously reported that Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars wrapped up their African Nations Championship (CHAN) group stage campaign with a statement of intent, edging Zambia 1-0 in Nairobi to secure top spot in Group A.
Since taking the reins after his spell as Manchester United first-team coach, McCarthy has injected belief and discipline into the Harambee Stars.
Their unbeaten run in the group stage not only underlines Kenya’s consistency but also fuels optimism that the co-hosts could go all the way.
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Source: Briefly News
