Uganda Cranes 0-0 Botswana Zebra (HT)
On a humid afternoon before a capacity cheering crowd, the group D AFCON 2017 qualifier between Uganda and Botswana remains score-less in the opening 45 minutes of the game at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Namboole in Kampala.
Uganda has been the dominant side in the opening minutes of the half. Gor Mahia left footed player, Godfrey Walusimbi, would have smiled with the opener had his effort off a well squared Geofrey Massa cross from the right been well utilized as early as the 9th minute.
Botswana’s Mosha Gaolalwe and Edwin Olerile tested the Cranes back line but solid defending remains the key component for the home side.
The visitors’ goal keeper, Dambe Kabelo later parried a Walusimbi in curler at the stroke of half time before midfielder, Farouk Miya’s rebounder was hit Kabelo for a corner.
The next 45 minutes will definitely provide a platform for the two teams to endeavour a winning start to the group that also has Comoros and Burkina Faso.
Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (G.K), Denis Iguma, Godfrey Walusimbi, Isaac Isinde, Richard Juuko Kasagga, Khalid Aucho, William Luwagga Kizito, Farouk Miya, Brian Umony, Geoffrey Massa, Brian Majwega
Subs: Robert Odongkara (G.K), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Robert Sentongo, Shafik Bakaki, Alex Kakuba, Yassar Mugerwa, Yunus Sentamu
