Uganda Cranes secure win to top group after beating Niger

Uganda secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Niger, with Allan Okello and Joel Sserunjogi scoring the decisive goals. Okello gave Uganda the lead midway through the first half, redeeming himself after having a penalty saved, before Sserunjogi sealed the win with a powerful strike just before the hour mark.

The result, combined with South Africa’s 2-1 win over Guinea earlier on Monday, propels Uganda to the top of the group with six points from three matches. Algeria sits second with four points from two games, followed closely by South Africa (four points, two games) and Guinea (three points, three games). Niger remains at the bottom with zero points.

After an opening-day defeat to Algeria, Uganda has bounced back with two consecutive wins, both with clean sheets, building momentum at a crucial stage. With one match remaining, their fate is now firmly in their own hands.

Okello, now with two goals and an assist in the tournament, was instrumental once again. Sserunjogi’s tireless wing play was capped with a well-taken finish. For Niger, it was another frustrating outing; a second straight defeat without scoring.

Despite creating set-piece opportunities and forcing late saves, Harouna Doulla’s side lacked composure in the box. A VAR-awarded penalty against them shifted momentum in Uganda’s favor, leaving Niger rooted to the bottom. They must regroup quickly in their remaining fixtures to avoid an early exit.