Paul Put stood calmly after leaving the Rabat rain, choosing balance over bitterness after Uganda were held to a 1-1 draw by a stubborn Tanzania in their Group C clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday night.
The Uganda head coach focused on what his side did right, praising their attitude and intent despite missed chances and a painful late twist.
“We created chances, we played good football and we were in the game,” Put said.
“Unfortunately, that’s football. We had a clear chance to win. It’s difficult, but I told the players to keep their heads up.”
His assessment matched a performance that showed control and purpose, especially after he made five changes from the defeat to Tunisia.
The reshuffle brought stability, with Bobosi Byaruhanga and Baba Alhassan holding midfield, Travis Mutyaba linking play, and Rogers Kassim Mato and Allan Okello supporting Jude Ssemugabi up front.
Denis Onyango captained the side, leading Uganda at AFCON for the first time in over six years.
Uganda enjoyed long spells on the front foot and created the better openings, but fell behind in the 57th minute when Baba Alhassan was penalised for handball. Saimon Msuva converted the penalty to put Tanzania ahead against the flow of the game.
There was no panic from the Cranes. As the rain grew heavier at Al Medina Stadium, Put pushed his team forward and turned to his bench.
The response came in the 81st minute when Denis Omedi whipped in a cross and substitute Karl Uche Ikpeazu met it with a powerful diving header to level the score.
Late drama followed. Uganda were given a chance to complete the comeback when James Bogere was fouled in the box, but Allan Okello sent the penalty over the bar, dropping to his knees as Tanzania held on.
Put was quick to protect his midfielder. “Even Messi misses penalties sometimes. He’s human,” the Belgian said.
“He took responsibility. He missed, it can happen. Maybe next game he scores and we are all happy. That’s football.”
Looking ahead, Put stressed the need to learn quickly, pointing to video analysis as Uganda work to sharpen their finishing before the final group match.
Elsewhere in Group C, Nigeria sealed qualification with a thrilling 3-2 win over Tunisia, confirming their status as tournament heavyweights. With the Super Eagles through, the last round will decide the remaining qualification spot.
Tunisia face Tanzania on Wednesday, December 30, while Uganda take on Nigeria. Both matches kick off at 19:00 EAT.
