International Friendly | Monday
- Uganda 1-1 Gambia
Uganda Cranes and Gambia shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw during an international friendly played on Monday evening at the Stade de Marrakech Annexe Pitch in Morocco.
The encounter, which saw former Uganda Cranes head coach Jonathan McKinstry face his old side for the first time since taking charge of Gambia, offered both nations a valuable testing ground ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.
Uganda drew first blood in the 25th minute when forward Rogers Mato finished off a slick attacking move to give the Cranes an early lead. However, their advantage was short-lived, as Gambia equalized just before halftime.
Midfielder Alasana Manneh calmly converted a penalty in the 44th minute, ensuring both sides went into the break on level terms.
The match came just days after Uganda’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Cameroon on Friday, a match that saw goalkeeper Ismail Watenga suffer a knee injury, forcing an early exit and raising concerns ahead of a busy calendar.
Gambia, under McKinstry’s guidance, proved a stern test for Uganda. The emotional undertone of McKinstry facing his former players added further intrigue to an already competitive match.
Uganda’s starting XI featured notable selections, including Toby Sibbick, who earned his second cap for the national team. The England-based Wigan defender previously made his debut in a friendly against Ghana last year and looked composed at the back throughout the contest.
The friendly marked the second of two matches Uganda scheduled in Morocco as part of head coach Paul Put’s ongoing preparations for a pivotal few months ahead. The Cranes are building towards the African Nations Championship (CHAN) finals in August and the next round of 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
Put has used the friendlies to evaluate new options and test the depth of his squad, an essential step as Uganda aims to sharpen its competitive edge on the continental and global stage.
Though the Cranes will have rued not securing a win, the draw against a strong Gambian side will provide valuable lessons as they continue their build-up toward major tournament action.
