Uganda Cranes get revenge against Tanzania in 2023 AFCON qualifiers

The Uganda Cranes scored late to defeat hosts Tanzania 1-0 in a Group F match of the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier played last night at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam.

Smarting from a 1-0 defeat to the Taifa Stars in the first leg played in Egypt few days ago, the Uganda Cranes were determined to also turn tables and pick maximum point.

After some missed chances by Taifa Stars skipper Mbwana Samatta, it was time for KCCA FC forward Rogers Mato who netted the lone goal after 90 minutes to ensure Uganda Cranes picked the revenge against their arch-rivals.

Substitute Farouk Miya provided the next pass that Mato capitalized on to slot the ball past advancing Tanzanian goalkeeper Aishi Manula.

“I thank God for helping me score an important goal for the national team,” said a happy Mato after the match. Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic, the Uganda Cranes coach said although it was a very tough match, his players battled bravely till the final whistle. “I thank my team for the job well done,” added the Serbian.

The Taifa Stars head coach Adel Amrouche said his team failed to take some of the chances they created infront of goal and later got punished.

The Prime Minister of Tanzania, Kassim Majaliwa Majaliwa together with the Tanzania Football Federation and CECAFA President, Wallace Karia also graced the match.

The win lifts Uganda to third place on 4 points same as Tanzania who are second on the log in Group F.

Later today Rwanda will host Benin in a Group L match of the AFCON qualifiers in Kigali. Victory for the Amavubi will see them go second with 5 points ahead of Mozambique who have 4 points. Senegal who have already qualified having won all their 4 matches top the group with 12 points.