After losing narrowly to African Champions Zambia in Levy Mwanawasa, Uganda Cranes wait to host the return leg at Namboole come October 13th with high hope of qualifying for AFCON for the first time since 1978. Kawowo Sports’ Ismael Kiyonga caught the game and rates each Ugandan player who took to the field against Zambia. The rating is out of ten marks and is based on personal observation.
DENIS ONYANGO: 7.5
The gigantic custodian did well to ensure Uganda left Mwanawasa with a respectable defeat. He organized his defence line well and his distribution was also fantastic. His 90th minute one on one save from James Chamanga remains the main highlight of his performance.
SIMEON MASABA 6.5
He had a torrid first 45 minutes defending against the pacy Kalaba and lost his man for the goal. He however regained his A game in the second half and provided the team numbers in attack with his marauding skills.
HENRY KALUNGI 6.0
The US based defender looked shaky especially in the first half and was at fault together with Masaba for the goal the Cranes conceded. However, he came into the game later as Uganda tried to defend from the front.
ANDREW MWESIGWA 6.5
The skipper commanded his defence line very well. He defended with power and confidence and ensured that the score line remains respectable. Though he lost his man on a few occasions, he did better.
GODFREY WALUSIMBI 6.0
The Vipers FC left full back like his compatriots in defence started on a shaky note but later grew in confidence. However, he had much to do on the left flank as Bobby Williamson didn’t field on a typical winger on the left flank. He did a commendable job though.
HASSAN WASSWA 6.0
The Turkish based midfielder did give protection to his back four with his tireless runs in the midfield. Fought for every ball and his physical strength really worked well for Uganda.
GEOFFREY KIZITO BABA 7.0
The youngster was a surprise inclusion in the starting line up but he didn’t disappoint. Passed the ball well though at times he slowed down pace. He is a safe bet for the future. A fantastic debut for the lad though.
TONNY MAWEJJE 6.0
He had a silent game by his standards but did well to contain the ever mobile Chipolopolo midfield. He tackled well though he looked off pace at times. Not the best game for the IBV midfielder.
MOSES OLOYA 6.5
The winger had a forgetful first half but later came into the game in the second half. He made countless dribbles and earned the visitors numerous free kicks which would have yielded an equalizer on any other day.
MIKE SSERUMAGA 3.5
Flop of the match on the Uganda Cranes side. Apart from his sixth minute shot that went wide, he did nothing. Came off for Hamis Kiiza at the start of the second half.
EMMANUEL OKWI 6.0. He was isolated in attack in the first 45 minutes but came back into the game after Kiiza’s introduction. He was selfish at times but earned Uganda a free kick on the edge of opponents box and his well ball to Wagaluka should have yielded an equaliser.
SUBSITITUTES:
HAMIS DIEGO KIIZA 5.5. His introduction gave the visitors options in attack though he didn’t see much of the ball.
DAN WAGALUKA 5.0 He should have scored a precious away goal for Uganda when laid through by Okwi but his fierce shot was parried away by Mweene.
ROBERT SSENTONGO N/a
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