Fri Nov 15 18:30:00 IST 2024: ## Uganda Cranes Secure Afcon 2025 Qualification After Congo’s Loss to South Sudan

**Kampala, Uganda -** The Uganda Cranes have qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after Congo’s surprising 3-2 loss to South Sudan in Juba on Thursday. The victory for South Sudan secured qualification for both Uganda and South Africa, who were both guaranteed a place in the tournament regardless of the outcome of their remaining matches.

Uganda, who last participated in the Afcon in 2019, needed just a point from their game against South Africa at Namboole on Friday to confirm their qualification. However, the result in Juba meant they secured their spot before even taking to the field.

The match in Juba was a surprise as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had previously announced that the remaining two rounds of qualifying matches would be played simultaneously. However, South Sudan confirmed on their social media that the match would be played on Thursday.

Despite the unexpected change, Uganda can now focus on securing top spot in their group. The Cranes, who drew 2-2 with South Africa in Johannesburg, have never beaten their opponents in six encounters.

Head coach Paul Put is expected to make minimal changes to the team that secured victory over South Sudan in their previous match. The Cranes will face South Africa at Namboole on Friday before concluding their campaign away to Congo on November 19.

South Africa, meanwhile, will wrap up their qualifiers at home to South Sudan on the same day.

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