Ikpeazu Heads Uganda Level As Missed Penalty Denies Cranes Late Win
Uganda were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Tanzania in their Africa Cup of Nations Group C encounter after Allan Okello missed a late penalty at Al Medina Stadium.
Uganda and Tanzania shared the spoils after a dramatic 1-1 draw in their second Group C match at the Africa Cup of Nations, with late twists ensuring neither side walked away fully satisfied.
The opening half was lively, particularly from Uganda, who created the clearer chances through Rogers Mato and Allan Okello. Mato struck the crossbar with a powerful header early on, while Okello twice tested Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba. Despite Uganda’s pressure, Tanzania held firm, and the first half ended goalless.
The deadlock was broken shortly after the hour mark when Tanzania were awarded a penalty following a handball in the box. Simon Msuva stepped up and calmly dispatched the spot kick into the top corner to give the Taifa Stars the lead in the 59th minute.
Uganda responded with urgency, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute when Uche Ikpeazu rose highest to meet Denis Omedi’s cross, powering a header straight down the middle to restore parity for the Cranes.
The match took a dramatic turn late on when Uganda were handed a golden opportunity to complete the comeback. James Bogere was fouled in the penalty area, but Allan Okello sent his effort narrowly over the bar, much to the frustration of the Ugandan bench and supporters.
Tanzania threatened on the break in stoppage time, while Uganda pressed desperately for a winner, but neither side could find the decisive goal. Tempers flared in the closing moments as fouls and stoppages disrupted the flow.
The draw leaves Group C finely poised, with Uganda encouraged by their fighting spirit but rueing a missed chance, while Tanzania will take confidence from a resilient display and a valuable point.
