Uganda Cranes’ return to the Africa Cup of Nations ended in a 1-0 defeat to Ghana despite putting up an impressive second half performance.
Ghana was awarded a first-half penalty after Cranes defender, Isaac Isinde, had a lapse in concentration and fouled Ghana’s captain, Asamoah Gyan, inside the box.
Andre Ayew sent Uganda’s Dennis Onyango the wrong way to slide in the spot-kick in the 31st minute for the first win in the group D clash.
The Ghanaians were the better side in the opening stages of the game, attacking through Newcastle’s Christian Atsu whose pace and skill overwhelmed Ugandan fullback, Joseph Ochaya.
Soon after the start of the second half, Uganda was forced to go on the offensive in search of an equaliser. Cranes coach made two quick substitutions bringing on more attacking power in, Moses Oloya, Geoffrey Sserunkuma and Mohammed Shaban for Mike Azira, Isaac Isinde and Luwagga respectively.
With four strikers on, Uganda was at sixes and sevens with the Black Stars and dominated most of the second half, forcing the Ghanaians to retreat and defend.
The Cranes then resorted to deadly set piece plays from Ochaya and Tonny Mawejje, but Ghana’s Amartey and Boye were up for the challenge.
On the opposite end, Ochaya made it hard for Ghana’s right back, Harrison Afful, with his fast dribbles but they still fell short in front of goal.
Ghana later broke free on the counter and could have scored a second through Atsu’s shot but Onyango once again, made a spectacular save from close range.
Uganda will be facing Egypt next on Saturday 21st in a must-win if they are to stay in the competition.
Featured photo: Uganda Cranes will have more to prove against Egypt and Mali. (NEW VISION)
