David GOMBE
Uganda’s remarkable 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) run ended in a heart-breaking 1-0 quarter-final defeat to defending champions Senegal at the sold out Mandela National Stadium in Namboole on Saturday.
Oummar Ba’s second-half strike was enough to send the reigning champions into the semifinals of the tournament co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
Two minutes after the hour mark, Ba fired the Senegalese into the lead and his goal was the difference between the two sides.
In the closing stages of the contest at Namboole, Arnold Odong had a golden opportunity to level matters but his effort went over the bar.
Gavin Kizito also failed to nod in Herbert Achayi’s cross in the 88th minute.
Senegal held on to set up a semifinal meeting with two time winners Morocco on Tuesday at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.
Despite defeat, the home fans broke into heartfelt applause as they cheered their beaten side long and loud after the final whistle in recognition of their achievements against the odds.
Uganda Cranes will now turn focus to the forthcoming 2026 World Cup Qualifier matches against Mozambique and Somalia next month.
