BY OUR REPORTER
Uganda Cranes suffered defeat in their final friendly game ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) Qualifiers against Tanzania.
Despite being dominant and producing the better scoring chances, Uganda fell to Zanzibar 1-0 at Amaan Stadium on Wednesday.
Ibrahim Mkoko scored the lone goal of the game in the 76th minute to hand the Zanzibar Heroes victory.
Coach Milutin Sredojevic aka Micho rang changes in the team that had started against Ethiopia on Sunday with goalkeeper Nafian Alionzo and defender Gavin Kizito Mugweri the only players keeping their places.
Milton Karisa, Siraje Ssentamu, Marvin Youngman, John Revita and Livingstone Mulondo were all rested.
Uganda started the better side and kept knocking on Zanzibar’s back line in a bid to break the deadlock.
Hakim Kiwanuka, Saidi Kyeyune and Isma Mugulusi all had attempts in the first half at different intervals.
Kiwanuka went through on goal but fired wide while Zanzibar goalkeeper was well stationed to deny both Kyeyune and Mugulusi.
At the start of the second half, coach Micho brought on Mathias Muwanga, Rogers Mato and Ibrahim Juma in places of Alionzi, Kizito and Mugulusi.
Uganda kept pilling pressure even after recess but it was the hosts that found the back of the net.
Mkoko was well stationed to drill a low drive beyond a fully stretched Muwanga in goal thus sending the fans into celebrations.
Uganda will stay in Zanzibar up to Friday before connecting to Tanzania mainland.
The first leg between Uganda and Tanzania is slated for Sunday, 28th August at Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium.
The return leg will be played on 3rd September at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
