Africa-Press – Uganda. As Uganda’s Cranes prepare for a crucial Group C clash with South Africa on Monday, 18th August 2025, at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, the mood in camp is buoyant.
The team sits proudly atop the table with six points from three matches, their eyes firmly set on a quarter-final spot in the ongoing TotalEnergies Caf African Nations Championship (CHAN) Pamoja 2024.
Yet amid the celebrations comes a stern reminder from the CAF Disciplinary Board — one Uganda would be wise to heed.
Last week, CAF handed fines to three fellow CHAN participants for off-field lapses. Zambia was fined USD 5,000 for failing to present their head coach at a mandatory pre-match press conference.
Kenya faced a hefty $50,000 penalty for multiple safety and security failures during their match against Morocco, with Caf warning that continued breaches could force future home games to be played at alternative venues.
Morocco was fined $5,000, half of which was suspended, over inappropriate player conduct.
These incidents underline a crucial point: at CHAN 2024, discipline off the pitch is just as important as performance on it.
For Uganda, that discipline has so far been matched by sharp play. The Cranes opened their campaign with a dominant 2-0 win over Niger, with Allan Okello pulling the strings with a goal and an assist.
They followed up with another clean-sheet victory, 3-0 against Guinea, before a narrow loss to Algeria.
These results leave them leading Group C ahead of Algeria and South Africa, with Guinea and Niger trailing.
The stakes on Monday could not be higher. A win against South Africa would cement Uganda’s place in the quarter-finals and potentially see them top the group, setting up a favourable knockout tie.
Even a draw might suffice, depending on other results, but three points would remove all doubt.
Caf’s rules are clear: the top two teams in each group advance. Uganda’s fate is firmly in their own hands.
Yet, as the recent fines show, one careless misstep in media duties, match security, or player conduct could invite unwanted distraction and financial penalties.
As hosts, the spotlight on Uganda will only grow brighter. The team must maintain focus both on the match ball and the rulebook, ensuring the only headlines they make are for their goals, not grievances.
On Monday night, Mandela National Stadium will be buzzing. Fans will come for the football, but Uganda’s CHAN dream will depend on a complete performance — on and off the field.
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