CECAFA Pre-CHAN tournament | Thursday
- Uganda 2-1 Senegal
Arnold Odong and Patrick Kakande were on target as Uganda Cranes edged Senegal 2-1 in their final CECAFA Pre-CHAN match at Rhino Academy Stadium in Karatu on Thursday afternoon.
Uganda came into the game needing a response after a 1-0 loss to Tanzania and delivered with a sharper, more organized performance.
The first half was tight, with chances on both ends. Emmanuel Anyama missed narrowly for Uganda, while Joel Mutakubwa made key saves to keep out Senegal’s Joseph Layousse Samb and Ameth Niang.
Odong broke the deadlock in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error. Three minutes later, substitute Kakande calmly slotted in a penalty after Senegal goalkeeper Marc Arona committed a foul in the box.
Senegal pulled one back late through Serigne Moctar Koite, but Uganda held firm for a confidence-boosting win.
“We showed more hunger going forward and in defense,” said Uganda head coach Morley Byekwaso.
CECAFA Executive Director Auka Gecheo said the tournament offers valuable exposure ahead of the upcoming CHAN finals.
