Uganda Cranes’ revamped attack delivered on Friday evening as Uchechukwu Ikpeazu and Melvyn Lorenzen scored to seal a 2–1 win over Chad in an international friendly at Stade Berrechid.
With AFCON preparations in full swing, head coach Paul Put fielded a fresh-looking side eager to impress. The new faces wasted no time showing their hunger.
Chad started well, pressing high and unsettling Uganda’s backline. The Cranes held their ground and, with a bit of luck, kept things level as they grew into the contest.
The opener came in the 18th minute when Chad goalkeeper Mbaynaissem Jourdain clipped Ikpeazu in the box. The striker stepped up for the penalty and coolly sent the keeper the wrong way.
Goalkeeper Dennis Kiggundu then preserved Uganda’s lead before halftime, standing tall in a one-on-one to deny Tchaouna Haroun with a brilliant save.
Uganda returned stronger after the break. When Chad failed to clear their lines, Lorenzen pounced with a sharp volley that flew past Mbaynaissem to make it 2–0.
Chad pulled one back in the 64th minute when Tchaouna converted from the spot, giving his side hope.
But the Cranes stayed composed. Kiggundu came up big again in the 70th minute, stretching to keep out Marius Mouandilmad’s fierce attempt.
Uganda managed the closing stages well and secured a deserved victory, an encouraging sign for a team still taking shape under Paul Put.
The Cranes return to action on Tuesday, September 18, against Morocco, a tougher test and another chance for Uganda’s emerging talent to shine.
