2024 CHAN: Byekwaso and Okello remain upbeat despite loss to Tanzania

Uganda Cranes were edged 1-0 by hosts Tanzania in a pre-CHAN three-nation tournament clash held in Arusha on Tuesday.

Iddi Nado’s long-range strike in the first half proved the difference, catching goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa off guard after he misjudged the bounce of the ball.

The Taifa Stars dominated the opening half, controlling possession and applying pressure on Uganda’s backline, which eventually paid off with the deserved lead before halftime.

However, the Cranes looked more composed and aggressive after the restart, particularly following the introduction of Ivan Ahimbisibwe and Joel Sserunjogi who injected much-needed energy into the side.

Head coach Morley Byekwaso acknowledged the sluggish first-half performance but was encouraged by the second-half response.

“We didn’t press enough in the first half and allowed them to build from the back which hurt us,” Byekwaso admitted after the match. “But after the break, we improved, dominated play, and restricted them to counter-attacks. It’s something to build on for the next game.”

Team captain Allan Okello echoed his coach’s sentiment, focusing on the positives ahead of the CHAN tournament.

“It wasn’t an easy game. We lost, yes, but we dominated especially in the second half. It’s never easy playing away,” Okello said. “We needed to create and convert more chances, but this is part of our preparation. We’ll work on the mistakes and come back stronger.”

Uganda will next face CHAN defending champions Senegal on Thursday as they continue fine-tuning ahead of the continental showpiece. The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off on August 2 and will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.