Uche Ikpeazu came off the bench to score an equalizing goal as Uganda Cranes salvaged a point against neighbours Tanzania in the second group C of Afcon 2025.
Simon Msuva had earlier given the Taifa Stars a lead and, in the end, both sides missed opportunities to win with Allan Okello missing from the spot before Charles M’Mombwa also hit an attempt wide off the mark with an open goal at his mercy.
Kawowo Sports’ Ismael Kiyonga rates the players on show at the Al Madina stadium in Rabat.
Denis Onyango 7.0: A composed performance from the veteran goalkeeper. Calmly collected almost all crosses and could do nothing about the penalty.
Tobby Sibbick 6.0: Started at his preferred centre back position and kept a close eye on Kelvin John and later Mbwana Samatta.
Jordan Obita 6.0: Consistently helped team play from the back with his weighted long balls across the field. Battled Msuva until the end of the game. Brilliant block at the start of the second half.
Kenneth Ssemakula 4.0: Back to his right back position. Defensively tested against the tricky though ineffective Allakhia and overlapping Mohamed Hussein but offensively didn’t offer much.
Aziz Kayondo 7.0: Was massive offensively with a few neat crosses but it was the interception at the end and the block that set him apart. Besides, his battles with Mnoga thrilled the crowd.
Alhassan Baba 5.0: Unfortunate with a penalty decision against him but overall, confidently asked the ball from his defenders as the Cranes tried to play from the back.
Bobosi Byaruhanga 6.0: Started well and his trade mark long range passes opened up the Taifa Stars backline but later ceded the midfield battle to Msanga and Fei Toto. Brilliant pass to Omedi before he set up Uche.
Allan Okello 5.0: Tested the goalkeeper with his weak right foot early in the game and had a few decent moments in the game. Missed a penalty that would have won the game for the Cranes.
Travis Mutyaba 6.5: A class act with possession as he easily beat the opponents with skill and trickery. Kept fans on tenterhooks whenever he got the ball but waned after the first half like many of his teammates.
Jude Ssemugabi 5.0: Given the central striker’s role but found it tough against Bakari Nondo and Hamad Baca who kept a close eye on him.
Rogers Mato 5.5: Denied by the woodwork in the first half but had a tough time getting past the experienced Taifa Stars backline especially Mnoga who had a good time.
Substitutes
James Bogere 6.0: The young lad had a good time on the pitch and won the penalty that was unfortunately missed.
Denis Omedi 6.0: Assisted Uche’s goal with an inch perfect cross.
Uche Ikpeazu 6.0: Salvaged a point with a centre forward’s goal. Right place, right time, perfect execution.
Ronald Ssekiganda N/a