Uganda handed cash reward ahead of Bafana tie

Uganda have received a massive cash reward from their government ahead of their clash against Bafana Bafana on Friday.

Uganda and South Africa both secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday after fellow Group K members South Sudan beat Congo 3-2 on Wednesday afternoon.

Read: Competition for Mokwana after arrival of new right-winger?

The result means that neither side can mathematically be eclipsed by Congo, with Uganda and Bafana sitting on 10 and eight points respectively heading into their match on Friday evening at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

While the outcome of the upcoming game now appears less critical, Uganda have already been given a valuable incentive to make their nation proud, following a visit from a high-ranking government official during their training session on Thursday.

According to NBS Sport, Uganda's Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, pledged her support to the Cranes by presenting them with a UGX 50 million (R249 343) cash reward.

"This afternoon, I had the privilege of watching the Uganda Cranes during their final training session at Namboole ahead of tomorrow's game against South Africa," she wrote on X after addressing the squad.

"Based on what I observed, I am confident that our boys will make us proud, as they always do."

Uganda and Bafana have previously met six times, with South Africa holding a clear advantage over their opponents, having picked up four wins and drawn twice. 

Read: Wydad blast Moroccan referees, 'demand immediate action'