Uganda Cranes secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville on Monday evening at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, to claim the top spot in Group K of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers.

Goals from Aziz Kayondo and substitute Jude Ssemugabi sealed the win, moving Uganda to four points after two games.

The Cranes took the lead in the 22nd minute when Kayondo’s attempted cross from the left flank curved into the back of the net, catching the Congo goalkeeper, Pavelh Ndzila off guard.

The early goal energised the packed Namboole Stadium, with the home fans creating a vibrant atmosphere as Uganda pressed for more.

A brief interruption occurred in the 34th minute when a section of the stadium lights went out.

However, the fans lit up their phone flashlights, maintaining the stadium’s lively spirit as play resumed moments later.

Uganda Cranes coach Paul Put made a substitution in the 44th minute, bringing on Jude Ssemugabi for Muhammad Shaban.

The substitution paid off in the second half when Ssemugabi made his mark in the 85th minute, scoring the second goal from a fine Allan Okello cross to double Uganda’s lead and secure the win.

The victory propels Uganda to the top of Group K, following their 2-2 draw with South Africa in their opening game.

Uganda now leads the group with four points, while South Africa, with one point, will face South Sudan, who currently bottom of the group with no points, in Juba tomorrow.

Next up for the Uganda Cranes is a home fixture against South Sudan on October 11, before travelling to Juba for the return leg on October 15.

Uganda’s quest to qualify for AFCON 2025, set to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco, remains on track with this crucial victory.