Uganda’s Allan Okello missed a crucial late penalty in a 1-1 draw with Tanzania, leaving both teams with slim AFCON knockout hopes
UGANDA’S Allan Okello missed a dramatic late penalty as his side drew 1-1 with Tanzania in their Africa Cup of Nations Group C clash.
The stalemate leaves both East African neighbours with just one point from two matches, severely denting their hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
Uganda had fought back to level the scores through Uche Ikpeazu’s 80th-minute header after Simon Msuva’s penalty had put Tanzania ahead.
The Cranes then won a penalty of their own in the 90th minute when James Bogere was fouled, but Okello blasted his spot-kick over the bar.
“I have a very bad feeling because I think we didn’t deserve this draw,” said Uganda coach Paul Put.
He described the missed penalty as “very, very painful but that is also football.”
Tanzania, who are still seeking their first-ever AFCON win, took the lead just before the hour mark through Msuva’s spot-kick.
The experienced forward has now scored at three different AFCON tournaments.
Uganda had earlier come close when Rogers Mato’s header struck the crossbar in the first half.
Tanzania coach Miguel Angel Gamondi expressed disappointment at missing the chance for a historic victory.
“We wanted our first win at the Africa Cup of Nations and I am very sorry for all the Tanzanian people,” he said.
Both nations are co-hosts for the 2027 edition of the tournament alongside Kenya.
They now trail Group C leaders Nigeria and Tunisia, who faced each other later on Saturday.
Uganda’s final group game is against Nigeria, while Tanzania will meet Tunisia.
