Sep 05, 2024
AFCON Qualifier: South Africa vs Uganda at Orlando Stadium
Date: 06 August 2024 Preview of AFCON qualifier between South Africa and Uganda at Orlando Stadium, Soweto. Team news, prediction.
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The highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign kicks off with South Africa's BafanaBafana taking on Uganda's The Cranes at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday evening 6 Pm. Both teams are eager to begin their journey towards securing a spot in the prestigious continental tournament. This match is crucial, as the teams have been drawn into Group K alongside Congo and South Sudan, who will play on Thursday.
Match Preview
After years of underperformance on the international stage, South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, has regained prominence. Earlier this year, they made an impressive run in the Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast, finishing third overall. South Africa reached the knockout stages by finishing second in a tough group featuring Mali, Namibia, and Tunisia. They further shocked the continent by eliminating the highest-ranked CAF team, Morocco, in the round of 16 with a 2-0 victory.
On the other hand, Uganda, known as the Cranes, have had a challenging run-up to this match. Coach Paul Put has assembled a squad of 28 players, but the team will be missing key defensive players Kenneth Semakula and Halid Lwaliwa, both of whom could not travel due to visa issues. Additionally, several important players, including Allan Kyambadde, Moses Opondo, Uche Ikpeazu, and Isak Ssewankambo, will be absent due to injuries. However, Uganda will look to goalkeeper Ismail Watenga, who plays for South Africa's Golden Arrows, to provide stability at the back.
Team News
South Africa
Coach Hugo Broos has a strong squad ready to build on their recent successes. The team is expected to feature a combination of experience and emerging talent. Goalkeeper Ricardo Goss is likely to start, with defenders like Thapelo Mudau, Njabulo Ngezana, and Mosa Lebusa forming a solid backline. The midfield will be key, with Teboho Mokoena, Siyethemba Sithebe, and Themba Zwane expected to control the game. Forwards Lyle Foster and Ashley Rayners will lead the attack.
South Africa possible starting lineup:
Goss; Mudau, Ngezana, Mvala, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole, Zwane, Kekana; Foster, Rayners
Uganda
Despite missing key players, Uganda will rely on Emmanuel Okwi and Fahad Bayo to create chances up front. Moses Waiswa will marshal the midfield, while Watenga is likely to start in goal. Uganda's defense, though weakened by the absence of Semakula and Lwaliwa, will look to Bevis Mugabi for leadership.
Uganda possible starting lineup:
Watenga; Muleme, Mugabi, Lwaliwa, Semakula; Mutyaba, Ssekiganda, Aucho; Mato, Mukwala, Okello
Head-to-Head
The historical record between South Africa and Uganda favors Bafana Bafana, who have won three of their four encounters. Uganda has yet to secure a win against South Africa, with one draw in their previous meetings. This match presents an opportunity for Uganda to finally make their mark, but South Africa will be keen to maintain their dominance.
Played 4 games
- South Africa wins: 3
- Draws: 1
- Uganda wins: 0
Prediction
Considering South Africa's recent resurgence and Uganda’s injury and visa issues, Bafana Bafana are the favorites to win this match. However, Uganda’s resilience and determination cannot be underestimated. Expect a closely contested game, but South Africa's superior squad depth and recent form should give them the edge.
Prediction: South Africa 2-2 Uganda
Support Soccer Unity with eKayzone
eKayzone wishes both teams the best of luck! Football is a sport that unites people, so head to Orlando Stadium to cheer for your team and interact with your fellow African brothers and sisters. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the score—soccer unity will win as it brings us all together.
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