On Sunday September 4, 2016, Uganda Cranes have an opportunity to re-write history by qualifying for the finals of Africa Nations Cup.
All Uganda need is a win against lowly ranked Comoros and the rest like they say, will be history.
Kawowo Sports’ Ismael Kiyonga digs into the archives and brings the memories of the Road to Ghana 1978.
Unlike now when 16 teams qualify for the finals, only eight did then with only six slots to fight for as the hosts and Cup holders earned automatic qualification.
In the first round, Uganda Cranes had to battle Taifa Stars of Tanzania but the latter withdrew and the former got a walkover to the next and final round where Ethiopia were lurking.
The first leg in Addis Ababa ended in a barren draw which made the return match in Kampala tight given that a score draw would guarantee Ethiopians a ticket to Ghana.
But the Cranes were playing at home and come D-day, November 13, 1977, Nakivubo stadium was filled to capacity.
The star studded Cranes had in their ranks among others Denis Obua (RIP), Phillip Omondi (RIP), Jimmy Kirunda, Eddie Ssemwanga, Moses Nsereko and Timothy Ayiekoh.
With the crowd behind the team, the hosts drew first blood with Eddie Ssemwanga converting from 12 yards after the visitors fouled in the area.
A few minutes after recess, The Walya Antelopes fought back and equalised sending the crowd into panic.
But with less than five minutes to go, skipper Jimmy Kirunda nodded home Ssemwanga’s free kick to send the home fans in the stands into frenzy.
The final whistle was greeted with cheers from all over the City and reportedly, there was nearly a stampede.
It was the third consecutive time Uganda qualified for the Africa Nations Cup (AFCON) and not many knew, it would be the last till perhaps Sunday September 4, 2016. #MujjeTulumbe.
Credit to Hassan Badru Zziwa of The Observer Media Ltd
