CHAN 2024: Uganda Stun Guinea 3-0 in VAR-Infused Conflict

By Nabakiibi Doreen Malaika

Uganda Cranes put on a statement performance at the Mandela National Stadium, sweeping aside Guinea 3-0 in the CHAN 2024 group stage. It was a night of joy for the home fans and another reminder of how Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is shaping this year’s tournament, adding both precision and drama to the game.

This was a big turnaround from the opening game against Algeria, where the Cranes struggled to find rhythm and fell 3-0. Against Guinea, they showed sharper passing, tighter defensive coordination, and far more confidence going forward. The lessons from Algeria’s defeat were turned into a dominant display.

First-Half Breakthrough

Debutant Reagan Mpande wasted no time making his mark. In the first half, he slotted home his maiden goal for the Cranes, ticking off both his full debut and first goal in style. It came after clever link-up play and was the reward for Uganda’s early dominance.

Half-time score: Guinea 0-1 Uganda.

Second-Half Show of Strength

Uganda came out after the break ready to finish the job and wasted no time doubling the lead. In the 62nd minute, Allan Okello calmly converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed a foul inside the box. The decision was greeted with roars from the home fans, who have quickly warmed to seeing VAR in action at Namboole.

Substitutions saw Ivan Ahimbisibwe and Patrick Kakande replace Jude Ssemugabi and Reagan Mpande. Ahimbisibwe made his presence felt almost immediately, capping the night with Uganda’s third goal late on.

Full-time score: Guinea 0-3 Uganda.

Man of the Match – Allan Okello

Okello’s composure, vision, and crucial penalty earned him the Man of the Match award.

Joel Mutakubwa’s Night to Remember

The Cranes goalkeeper walked off the pitch with:

A clean sheet
Three solid points
Fan Power
The atmosphere at Namboole was electric from start to finish. The chants, songs, and sheer noise from the stands gave the players a huge lift and made the victory even sweeter.

Looking Ahead

This result strengthens Uganda’s push for the knockout stages. With youthful energy, experienced heads, and the fairness that VAR brings, the Cranes could have just the right mix to make a deep run at CHAN 2024.