27 March 2024 | Football

Uganda Cranes showed enthusiasm and character as they twice fought from a goal down to share spoils with Ghana 2-2 in a practice match on Tuesday.

In a game played in Marrakech, Morocco, Ghana was the better side in the first stanza before Uganda improved their craft in the second half.

Tom Ikara made a thrilling full stretch save, palming away Jordan Ayew’s free kick from the edge of the box in the six minute.

A minute later, Jerome Opoku rose highest to nod home Ayew’s well weighted corner kick. However, it was an easy goal given away by the flat footed Uganda backline.

In the 21^st minute, quick footed Rogers Mato was tripped in the area by defender Ebenezer Annan and Uganda were awarded a penalty.

Steven Dese Mukwala stepped up to the occasion and calmly converted from the 12-yard mark as he sent Ghana custodian Joseph Luke Wallacott the wrong way.

Seven minutes later, Mukwala collided with Ghana’s right back in the area and the centre referee once again pointed to the spot.

Ghana’s skipper Ayew converted from the mark thus regaining their lead that was guarded until the break.

Going into the second stanza, Paul Put introduced Karim Watambala and Halid Lwaliwa for Toby Sibbick and Travis Mutyaba.

The changes created a balance as Watambala brought energy and pace, giving Ghana’s midfielders more work to do.

In the final 20 minutes, Uganda introduced Muhammad Shaban and Moses Aliro to replace Mukwala and Fahad Bayo.

The duo combined as Shaban levelled matters thanks to his great anticipation that saw him rebound from close range.

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