Uganda achieved their inaugural "special" victory in their T20 World Cup debut by defeating Papua New Guinea by three wickets at Providence Stadium in Guyana.

The African team dismissed PNG for 77 runs and, after a shaky start at 26-5, reached their target in 18.2 overs during their second match at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 on Wednesday.

The Uganda team celebrated joyously, dancing on the edge of the field, and bowed to their supporters who had traveled from Africa to the Caribbean to cheer them on.

"Our first World Cup win – it doesn't get more special than this," said Brian Masaba post-match. "I'm immensely proud of our team and the effort they've put in. Winning for our country at the World Cup is immensely special."

Masaba's squad progressed through African qualifiers, making it to the 20-team global tournament, ousting Zimbabwe, a seasoned member of the International Cricket Council.

Uganda 🇺🇬 etch their name in history with a first-ever #T20WorldCup victory in their debut tournament to secure a tense 3-wicket win against Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬

Nicely done, Cricket Cranes 👏#WeAreCricketCranes pic.twitter.com/pg7u3gwZuh

— Uganda Cricket Association (@CricketUganda) June 6, 2024

"It’s been three or four years of very hard work," Masaba added. "Getting to the World Cup was significant, but this is even more so."

Riazat Ali Shah was Uganda's top scorer with 33 runs and built a critical sixth-wicket partnership of 35 with Juma Miyagi (13), following an opening match loss to Afghanistan by 125 runs.

Riazat’s 56-ball innings ended with Uganda just three runs short of victory, falling to a catch from John Kariko.

"Chasing a low score was tough after being three down early," said Masaba. "Every run counted immensely for us."

He continued, "Our supporters mean the world to us. These dedicated fans travel globally to cheer us on. Winning at the World Cup is a small token of appreciation for their unwavering support."

Masaba acknowledged the crucial lift from fans watching in Uganda during pre-dawn hours. "It’s not easy, but we cherish and appreciate their efforts."

PNG would surely regret the moment when Charles Amini dropped Riazat on eight, missing an easy catch.

The Pacific Islanders faced a challenging defense with a low total and were also hampered by weak bowling, giving away 15 wides.

Riazat played with discipline, his innings ending when he skied a catch to John Kariko with just three runs needed for the win.

Masaba won the toss and elected to field, a decision rewarded when Alpesh Ramjani dismissed PNG captain Assad Vala with an lbw on the second ball, leading to a wicket-maiden opening over.

Sese Bau’s attempt to drive Juma Miyagi was caught by Roger Mukasa, who made a commendable catch from mid-off. Tony Ura followed similarly, his drive off Cosmas Kyewuta going straight to Mukasa.

Lega Siaka’s confident 12 off 17 balls ended with a run-out attempt for a second run, and Charles Amini soon followed, bowled by Frank Nsubuga.

Only Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) managed double digits as PNG was bowled out with five balls left of their 20 overs quota.

Uganda is set to face co-hosts West Indies on Sunday.