David GOMBE
Allan Okello missed a stoppage-time penalty in the East African derby between Uganda and Tanzania that ended in a 1–1 draw at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025, at Stade El Barid in Rabat on Saturday night.
Uganda had a golden opportunity to maximize points after substitute Karl Ikpeazu had drawn them level to cancel out Simon Msuva’s opener, but Okello blazed his spot-kick over the crossbar at the stroke of full time, denying the Cranes a dramatic victory.
Victory over their East African rivals would have boosted Uganda’s hopes of progressing to the last 16.
Following the stalemate, both sides are now facing must-win scenarios on the final day of Group C action.
Early into the contest, Rogers Mato came close in the first half when his powerful header off Azizi Kayondo cross hit the crossbar, while Okello tested Tanzanian goalkeeper Foba Zuberi twice from close range.
After the recess, it was Tanzania who struck first when Alhassan Baba was penalized for handling the ball in the forbidden area in the 58th minute.
Msuva stepped up and calmly beat veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango.
Uganda got the leveller through substitute Ikpeazu who dived in to meet a Dennis Omedi cross, heading home to restore parity.
The Cranes then thought they had snatched all three points when they were awarded a late penalty, but Okello blazed over the bar.
There was still late drama at the other end, as Onyango spilled a cross into a dangerous area, only for substitute Charles M’Mbowa to volley wide and spare Uganda further punishment.
Tanzania will next face Tunisia at the Olympic Stadium on Tuesday, while Uganda travel to Fez for a decisive encounter against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
