Uganda Cranes put up a resilient performance to overcome Senegal at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Algeria.
In the game played on Wednesday at the 19th May 1956 Stadium, Annaba, Uganda stunned the Lions of Terranga to win 1-0.
Skipper Milton Karisa scored the lone goal of the game to guide the Cranes to victory.
This is only Uganda’s second victory at the biennial Championship and the first since 2014 when the Cranes defeated Burkina Faso 2-1.
The players had to wither heavy rains and extremely cold conditions of the day to produce the much-needed win.
Senegal posed threats in the opening stages of the game but Uganda was resolute and the team worked together to deny the West Africans.
A miscommunication between defender Geoffrey Wasswa and goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi nearly gifted Senegal the lead with the latter holding a back pass but the indirect free kick awarded was dealt with.
Moments later, Senegal were awarded a penalty but Alionzi saved Cheikh Sidibe’s effort from the spot.
On the other hand, Uganda’s first real attempt in the 33rd minute resulted in a goal.
Moses Waiswa’s corner kick delivery was cleared into Kenneth Ssemakula’s path and his cross from the left met Karisa who connected home thanks to a deflection from a Senegalese defender.
At the start of the second half, coach Micho called for the first change bringing on Karim Watambala for Marvin Youngman.
He also introduced Titus Ssematimba, Moses Aliro, Hillary Mukundane and Travis Mutyaba as the game went on.
In the 51st minute, Karisa thought he had won a penalty for Uganda but the referee overturned his decision after checking with VAR.
Senegal were reduced to ten men in the 78th minute with Libasse Ngom who had just come on sent off after a nasty tackle on Watambala.
The Cranes held on to pick maximum points and go top of Group B on 4 points.
Semakula was named man of the match for his great performance in the midfield.
Uganda will return to action on Sunday against Ivory Coast at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI
Nafian Alionzi (GK), James Penzi Begisa, Derrick Ndahiro, Geofrey Wasswa, Gift Fred, Marvin Youngman, Kenneth Semakula, Moses Waiswa, Frank Ssebufu, Milton Karisa, Rogers Mato
Substitutes
Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Jack Komakech(GK), Isa Mubiru, Ashraf Mandela, Hillary Mukundane, Karim Watambala, Bright Anukani, Travis Mutyaba, Titus Ssematimba, Moses Aliro, Nelson Ssenkatuka, Ibrahim Orit