Andre Dede Ayew scored a first half penalty to condemn Uganda Cranes to a slim but bitter defeat against Black Stars of Ghana.
A torrid first half performance was followed by a decent show by Micho’s side but the four-time African champions held on to their lead to win the Group D opener.
Kawowo Sports’ Ismael Kiyonga rates the Ugandan players on the day at Port Gentil stadium.
Denis Onyango 7.0: Cranes best player on the day. He had nothing to do with the penalty but made over three stunning saves to deny the Black Stars.
Denis Iguma 6.0: He was preferred ahead of Wadada at right back and did a good job to stop Andre Ayew especially in the second half. However, he was poor going forward.
Joseph Ochaya 5.0: A terrible evening for the lad as he was turned in and out by Christian Atsu in the first half but improved after the break when Ghana got the foot off the peddle.
Hassan Wasswa 6.0: Didn’t start well as he was bullied by Asamoah Gyan but grew into the game and did well. He was always willing to battle for any ball.
Isaac Isinde 4.0: He gave away an avoidable penalty which cost the team. His decision making was suspect but tried as much as he could to stop Jordan Ayew.
Geoffrey Kizito 6.0: He did well in front of the back four with brilliant interceptions. His positioning was also fine to stop the well-oiled Ghana machine.
Tonny Mawejje 6.5: He was brave enough to shoot wherever he got the opportunity and was unfortunate to miss target. His performance improved as the game waned.
Mike Azira 5.0: He made his first start in the national team colours but not one he will want to remember. He was good on the ball but average off it when Ghana were attacking.
Farouk Miya 6.0: Unfortunate to hit the post with arguably The Cranes’ best chance. He was willing to chase after every ball and his ball distribution was fine especially in the second half.
Luwagga Kizito 4.0: He was reckless in possession and always made late decisions in the final third. His only contribution in the game was the pass to Miya towards the end of the first half.
Geoffrey Massa 6.0: He lacked service especially in the first half but his first touch also often let him down in the second. He had a thunderous shot from free kick miss target by inches.
Substitutes
Muhammad Shaban 6.0: The young lad came on for Luwagga midway the second half and did well. He showed no signs of fear and tried to destabilize the Ghana backline with his pace and power.
Geoffrey Sserunkuma 5.0: Replaced Isinde with 20 minutes to the clock but denied space and time by the Black Stars on the ball. His first touch classic though.
Moses Oloya 6.0: He came on for Azira after recess and offered a direct threat from the width.
