The Uganda Cranes could soon pocket a Shs 1.2 billion bonus following their emphatic victory against Guinea in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
On Monday, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni pledged a hefty Shs 1.2 billion reward for every match the Cranes win during the tournament. The announcement was delivered to the team by Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President Moses Magogo, just hours before their opening match against Algeria at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
However, the Cranes stumbled in their opener, losing to Algeria. Determined to bounce back, the team regrouped and on Friday put on a stellar performance, thrashing Guinea 3-0 at the same venue.
The dominant display electrified the home crowd, with fans erupting in celebration as the Cranes reignited their campaign and moved a step closer to claiming the presidential bonus.
The first goal came in the 31st minute when SC Villa winger Reagan Mpande, making his maiden CHAN appearance, gave Uganda the lead with a fine assist from KCCA midfielder Joel Serunjoji, who is also playing in his first CHAN tournament.
The first yellow card of the match came in the 55th minute after Vipers SC centre-back Hillary Mukundane was fouled.
In the 61st minute, Uganda extended their lead through Allan Okello’s spot-kick after he was fouled in the 18-yard box and awarded a penalty following a VAR check.
In the 78th minute, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, making his maiden appearance, was introduced and later made it 3-0 with a fine finish from a Patrick Jonah Kakande assist.
