As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers heat up, Uganda vs South Africa face off in a pivotal clash on Friday, November 15, at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. Uganda leads Group K and is on the verge of securing a place in the AFCON finals, while Bafana Bafana are fighting for survival and need a win to keep their qualification hopes alive. With everything on the line, both teams are determined to come out on top in what promises to be a highly charged encounter.
Uganda vs Bafana Bafana Kick-Off
- Fixture: Uganda vs South Africa
- Date: Friday, November 15, 2024
- Time: 17:00 CAT
- Venue: Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, Kampala
Head-to-Head Record
Uganda has yet to defeat South Africa in their last five meetings, with Bafana Bafana securing three wins and two draws. The most recent encounter, played in September 2024 in Johannesburg, ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw, and this result will surely fuel both teams’ ambitions heading into the return leg.
Current Form
In Uganda vs South Africa on November 15, the stakes could not be higher. Uganda sits at the top of Group K with 10 points, having won three times and drawn once. South Africa is just two points behind with 8 points, thanks to two wins and two draws. The result of this match could be decisive in determining who advances to the 2025 AFCON finals, making it a must-win for Bafana Bafana.
Key Players to Watch
- Uganda: Allan Okello has been instrumental in Uganda’s campaign, with three assists in recent matches. His ability to create chances will be critical as the Cranes look to break down South Africa’s defense. Midfield veteran Wasswa Geoffrey returns to the squad, bringing experience and leadership to the midfield, while Denis Omedi and Rogers Mato will also be key to Uganda’s attacking play.
- South Africa (Bafana Bafana): Teboho Mokoena will be crucial in the heart of the Bafana Bafana midfield, dictating the tempo of the game. Up front, the powerful Evidence Makgopa will need to find the back of the net for South Africa, who will look to exploit Uganda’s defensive gaps. Despite missing key players like Percy Tau and Themba Zwane, Bafana Bafana still have the potential to surprise on the day.
Injury Updates
Uganda’s squad has remained mostly intact, with only minor concerns over travel fatigue affecting some players. South Africa, however, is missing several key figures, including Percy Tau, Themba Zwane, and Grant Kekana, while Mihlali Mayembela and Lyle Foster are also sidelined. These absences could limit Bafana Bafana’s attacking options.
Betting Odds
| Outcome | Predicted Odds (Decimal) |
|---|---|
| Uganda Win | 2.10 |
| Draw | 3.20 |
| South Africa (Bafana Bafana) Win | 2.50 |
| Both Teams to Score | 1.85 |
| Uganda Clean Sheet | 2.40 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 2.15 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 1.75 |
| Draw No Bet | Uganda 1.80 / South Africa 2.00 |
| Double Chance Uganda | 1.40 |
| Double Chance South Africa | 1.50 |
Betting Tips
Uganda enters this match as the favorites, with home advantage and only needing a point to confirm their qualification. South Africa must push for a win, which could result in an open, attacking game. Betting on both teams to score seems like a good option given the attacking capabilities of both sides. Uganda’s double chance offers security for those who think the Cranes will avoid defeat at home.
Uganda vs Bafana Bafana Prediction Breakdown
Uganda’s strategy will likely revolve around a disciplined defense while capitalizing on quick counter-attacks, especially with the pace and creativity of players like Allan Okello. South Africa, knowing they must secure all three points, will have no choice but to attack. This should make for an exciting, back-and-forth match where both teams are likely to get on the scoresheet.
Predicted Starting Line-ups
- Uganda: Watenga; Semakula, Mugabi, Lwaliwa, Kayondo; Omedi, Lwanga, Aucho, Okello; Nsibambi, Mato
- South Africa (Bafana Bafana): Williams; Mvala, Dortley, Modiba, Mudau; Mokoena, Aubaas, Maswanganyi, Appollis; Mokwana, Makgopa
Conclusion
As the Uganda vs South Africa match approaches, both teams are acutely aware of what’s at stake. Uganda’s home advantage puts them in a strong position to qualify, but Bafana Bafana, led by Hugo Broos, will be determined to spoil the Cranes’ party. South Africa must secure a win to keep their qualification hopes alive, making this a thrilling encounter with everything to play for.
Related article: Bafana Bafana Squad Changes Ahead of 2025 AFCON Qualifiers Against Uganda and South Sudan