Uganda Cranes staged a resilient display to earn a 1-1 draw against hosts Tunisia in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifier played at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in Radès.
Rogers Mato was Uganda’s hero for, cancelling out Alaa Arous’ early goal to seal the Cranes’ first-ever point against the North African giants.
The hosts got off to an electric start, breaking the deadlock early when Arous easily tapped home Khalil Ayari’s corner kick after the Ugandan defence was caught flat-footed on 15 minutes.
Despite the early setback, Paul Put’s side remained composed and gradually took control of the tempo, forcing the Tunisians onto the back foot before the halftime whistle.
In search of an equaliser, head coach Paul Put brought on James Bogere for Travis Mutyaba in the 63rd minute, a tactical change that paid immediate dividends.
Five minutes later, Mato brought the Cranes level in sensational style, calmly controlling a precise cross from Nathan Asiimwe before coolly slotting it into the back of the net.
The equaliser proved to be the turning point, boosting Uganda’s confidence as they managed the remaining minutes effectively to secure a crucial away point.
Tactically, Put deployed a dynamic 3-5-2 system, crowding the midfield and stifling
Tunisia’s central playmaking.
The setup proved effective, forcing the hosts to operate predominantly in wide areas rather than their preferred central channels.
Uganda will return to action on Tuesday, September 29, when they host Libya at the Hoima City Stadium.
