Uganda Cranes warmed up for the 2014 CHAN finals with a 3-0 victory against Mauritania in a game played at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Thursday afternoon.
Second half goals from Brian Majwega, Savio Kabugo and Francis Olaki were all Micho’s charges needed to claim victory after a barren draw in the first half.
Kawowo Sports’ Ismael Kiyonga rates each of Uganda Cranes’ players that featured in the game that had one of the worst fans’ turn up in history of international games at Namboole.
Ismail Watenga 5.0: The Vipers SC goalie made his international debut after being preferred over first choice Benjamin Ochan. He was rarely tested and had nothing to do apart from a finger tip save to deny the visitors from getting at least a consolation.
Julius Ntambi 6.0: The right full back was so solid defensively and allowed Mauritania right winger Lo Aziz no space and time on the ball but provided nothing going forward. He needs to improve his game offensively.
Isaac Muleme 7.0: He was one of Uganda’s best players on the day. He was so good defensively and offered the same going forward especially in the second half after the introduction of left winger Brian Majwega.
Savio Kabugo 6.5: He read the game well and was as hard as a rock at the back. Besides, he extended Cranes’ lead by scoring his first international goal with a well taken header off a corner.
Richard Kasagga 6.0: He was not troubled but showed signs of panic on a few occasions Mauritania threatened. His major contribution to the game was his involvement in the third goal as Francis Olaki slotted home after Kasagga’s shot was blocked.
Ivan Ntege 7.0: The KCC FC midfielder was the heart and soul of the team in the centre of the pack. He blocked opponents’ play and initiated moves from deep. A brilliant game for the lad.
Denis Guma 7.0: The team skipper had a good day at office and his presence in the middle of the pack added urgency and a bit of enthusiasm to the team. His combination with Ivan Ntege was also fine.
Said Kyeyune 5.0: The URA FC midfielder had an awful day on the pitch. He didn’t make any meaningful contribution to the team and was withdrawn immediately after the first half.
Joseph Mpande 5.0: Like Kyeyune, Mpande also continues to falter whenever he dons the national team jersey. He failed to pass the ball when necessary and had no impact for the entire time he spent on the pitch. It was no surprise when Micho withdrew him at half time.
Vincent Kayizzi 6.0: The experienced winger had an improved game going by his recent exploits in the national jersey and appeared the most creative of all the players that started the game. He however seemed to lack confidence to shoot when through on goal on two occasions.
Yunus Ssentamu 5.0: He was a handful for the Mauritania defenders but lacked the composure in front of goal and wasted three one on one opportunities. He had a goal rightly disallowed for offside in the first half.
SUBSTITUTES:
Brain Majwega 7.0: Replaced Said Kyeyune after recess and added pace to the Cranes attack. He scored Uganda’s opener from a free kick and delivered the two corner kicks from which Uganda got the two goals.
Francis Olaki 6.0: He scored on his debut after coming on for Joseph Mpande and was involved in most of Cranes attacks after coming on. A promising start for the lad.
Ronnie Kisekka 5.0: Replaced Kasagga at the heart of defence and did well though he wasn’t troubled.
Allan Kyambadde 5.0: Came on for the tired Kayizzi Vincent but did nothing of note though he once in a while made some neat passes.
Simon Okwi: Replaced the lethargic Yunus Ssentamu but had no scoring opportunities to showcase his exploits.
Hassan Wasswa: N/A He came on late for Guma and had no impact apart from getting booked for protesting.
