Rogers Torach is proving to be more than just a captain — he is becoming the very heartbeat of the Uganda Cranes at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
On Monday night under the Mandela National Stadium floodlights, the rugged skipper delivered the most important goal of Uganda’s campaign so far, converting a late penalty to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw with South Africa. The result etched Uganda’s name into the CHAN quarterfinals for the very first time, ending a wait that stretched back to the country’s debut in 2011.
It was the culmination of a remarkable turnaround story. Torach, known for his grit and resilience, took over the armband when coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza sought someone to ease the pressure on playmaker Allan Okello after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Algeria in the first game of the campaign.
Since then, Uganda has not looked back, going unbeaten and now scripting history.
Uganda rising
In the pulsating Group C finale, the Cranes twice clawed their way back into the contest. Jude Ssemugabi opened Uganda’s account before Vipers SC maestro Allan Okello struck his third goal of the tournament to equal Yunus Sentamu’s all-time CHAN record.
But it was Torach who provided the final, defining act.
With just minutes left and Uganda trailing 3-2, the skipper stood tall. Ice-cool under pressure, he buried the penalty with conviction, sparking bedlam in Namboole and lifting the Cranes into uncharted territory.
Beyond his commanding presence at the back, Torach has shown he can shoulder the heaviest responsibility, even in front of thousands of expectant home fans.
Now, as Uganda prepares for a historic quarterfinal clash on Saturday, belief is surging that his decisive strike could be the spark for an even deeper run at CHAN 2024.