Uganda Cranes clinched a historic quarter-finals ticket for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship after a pulsating 3-3 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Monday night, breaking the group stage exit voodoo in their past six appearances.

Playing in front of 34,194 fans at the Mandela National Stadium Namboole in Kampala, the Cranes took the lead in the 31st minute through Jude Ssemugabi, who connected a neat pass across the goalmouth from Patrick Kakande.

Defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele restored parity for the Rainbow Nation early in the 2nd half before Thabiso Kutumela extended the lead in the 58th minute, tapping in a Neo Maema pass.

The match took a dramatic twist in the dying minutes of the regulation time when the hosts were handed a penalty after Ivan Ahimbisibwe was tripped in the box and converted by Allan Okello.

As Bafana Bafana defended deeply, Ugandans threw more men forward, winning a penalty after Menzi Masuku handled the ball in the box, winning a 2nd penalty.

Rogers Torach stepped up in the 96th minute to convert it and draw his side level, sparking wild celebrations.

Uganda topped group C on 7 points and made it past the group stage for the 1st time after 6 unsuccessful attempts.

Last edition silver medallist Algeria finished on an equal 6 points with South Africa after being held to a frustrating barren draw by Niger at Nyayo Stadium.

Like their fellow co-hosts Tanzania and Kenya, Uganda will play their quarter-final at home on Saturday 23rd August against a 2nd-placed team from Group D which will be confimed today.