Uganda’s absence from Africa’s biggest football showpiece finally came to an end after 38 years of waiting. Sensational forward Farouk Miya’s first half strike delivered the dream return to African cup of Nations scoring against Comoros in the game played at Mandela national stadium on Sunday.
Chimpreport’s Joel Muyita rates how each cranes player performed in the historic win
Dennis Onyango (7)
As always he has proved to be a key figure in goal for Uganda. He denied Bakar Djamel as early as the 7th minute. Onyango also stood in the right position to save Fouad Bachirou’s effort too. minutes after recess.
Nicholas Wadada (8)
He ably replaced the suspended Dennis Guma put up a fantastic performance balancing both and offence, making timely interceptions and overlapping in times when cranes were on the attack. He was also the fan’s darling.
Joseph Ochaya (7)
Ochaya denied Comoros’ Ahamada Kassim chance to penetrate through the cranes defence. He also offered support on the attack making runs upfront whenever the cranes were in possession.
Jjuko Murushid (6)
Played the sweeper role and was calm throughout the game. Even after picking up a yellow card in the 42nd minute, Jjuko remained composed.
Isaac Isinde (7.5)
He was rock solid, marking out Youssouf Ben. Isinde jumped high to win aerial duels, made interceptions and also cleared out of danger when it was necessary.
Khalid Aucho (8)
One of the best performers on the day. Aucho patrolled the midfield and provided cover to the defence.
Tonny Mawejje(6)
He had a slow start to the game but later rose to the occasion. Mawejje’s ability to run box to box was essential.
Luwagga William Kizito (6.5)
Great first touch, great runs, fine dribbles, Luwagga caused havoc to the Comoros defence but his undoing was over carrying the ball at times.
Geoffrey Massa (6)
He did not play to his ability but his presence upfront troubled the Comoros defence. His best effort came on the half hour mark but his header was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Ahamada Ali
Farouk Miya (9)
He put up a man of the match performance and scored the lone strike that helped Uganda qualify. His offensive ability troubled the Comoros defense throughout the game.
Moses Oloya (6.5)
Had a good start getting Uganda’s first attempt on goal in the 10th minute but blew hot and cold thereafter and at times failed to offer support to Wadada.
Substitutes
Emmanuel Okwi (5.5)
He replaced Luwagga Kizito in the 53rd minute but remained silent for the time he was on the pitch
Godfrey Walusimbi (6)
He came on in the 84th minute for Moses Oloya. The diminutive defender cum winger offered support to the defence when Comoros was pushing for the equaliser.
Hassan Wasswa (N/A)
He was on the pitch for just one minute. He came on as in added time for Geoffrey Massa.
Coach: Milutin Sredojevic (7.5)
As usual he stood throughout the entire game, giving instructions to the players.