Soccer
Do-or-die as Bafana out to silence Uganda in CHAN decider─── MORGAN PIEK 10:43 Mon, 18 Aug 2025
Bafana Bafana will be gunning for a place in the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) when they face co-hosts Uganda in Kampala on Monday evening (18/8).
It’s do-or-die for South Africa, as the winner of this crucial Group C clash will secure a spot in the last eight. As of Monday morning, Uganda sit top of the group with six points from three matches, while defending champions Algeria are second on five points.
South Africa are also on five points, but the Desert Foxes hold the advantage on goal difference. Algeria take on Niger in their final match and are widely expected to collect three points, which would move them up to eight and secure top spot. That means Bafana will most likely need nothing less than a victory. A draw could still be enough, but only if Niger upset Algeria – a tall order by any measure.
Kwanda Mngonyama against Angola in the COSAFA Cup. Photo: Morgan Piek
Adding to the challenge, Bafana will also have to contend with Uganda’s so-called “12th man” – the passionate home support. A hostile atmosphere in Kampala is almost guaranteed.
Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki, who hails from Botshabelo, said his side needs to back themselves and go for the win.
“Things will be very interesting for all the teams playing on Monday,” Ntseki said.
“We, as South Africa, are fully aware that if we want to reach the next stage of this tournament, it is a must-win game – as much as it is for Uganda as well.
“In terms of our technical approach, we know the demands and expectations. Mentally, it’s about how we carry ourselves going into this match, and tactically, about how we prepare.
“We’ve now seen all the teams play three matches, and across those games there have been changes in player selection and approach.”
AmaZulu centre-back Kwanda Mngonyama, who will anchor the defence, also highlighted the importance of mental strength against Uganda’s home advantage.
Captain Neo Maema against Egypt in Bloemfontein. Photo: Morgan Piek
“As the coach has said, Monday won’t be easy for us,” Mngonyama admitted.
“But we know what to expect, especially on Monday. South Africa need to win if we want to go through, and Uganda have to beat us to advance. It’s not going to be easy, but we’ve got to fight.
“We’re ready, and being mentally prepared is one of the most important things for Monday’s game.”
Monday night’s decisive Group C showdown kicks off at 19:00 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. At the same time, Algeria face Niger at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
