South Sudan and Uganda played out a tense and fast-paced encounter, with both teams scoring early goals before Uganda clinched a crucial 2-1 victory in the second half.
The game started energetically, with Uganda taking the lead in the 16th minute through Omedi, who capitalized on a defensive error from South Sudan to slot the ball home. However, South Sudan responded swiftly, finding an equalizer just five minutes later when Juma’s strike brought the match level at 1-1 by the 21st minute. The equalizer set the tone for a competitive first half, which ended with both teams heading into the break at a stalemate.
In the second half, Uganda intensified their pressure, determined to secure the win. Their efforts paid off in the 66th minute when the cranes’ persistence forced South Sudan into a mistake, leading to a crucial owngoal by Leku that restored Uganda’s lead. Despite South Sudan’s attempts to equalize again, Uganda held on for the victory.
With this win, Uganda now tops the group and is in a strong position to qualify for the next stage. Unfortunately for South Sudan, the loss ended their hopes of progressing further.