Uganda Cranes’ long-awaited return to the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations got off to a difficult start as they fell 3–1 to Tunisia in Group C at the Stade Olympique Annex in Rabat.
Playing under heavy rain, the Cranes struggled to cope with Tunisia’s intensity and movement, particularly in the first half.
Elias Achouri was the standout performer for the Carthage Eagles, scoring twice and constantly troubling the Ugandan backline, while Ellyes Skhiri added a third with a well-taken header.
Denis Omedi’s late strike offered some consolation, but it was not enough to change the outcome of a match in which Tunisia were largely in control.
Here is how each Uganda Cranes player performed on the night.
Salim Magoola – 5/10
The goalkeeper produced two important saves after the break that prevented the scoreline from getting worse. However, a misplaced distribution in the build-up to Tunisia’s second goal proved costly. He had little chance with any of the goals conceded.
Tobby Sibbick – 6/10
One of Uganda’s brighter performers. Comfortable on the ball and positive going forward, Sibbick showed confidence whenever he advanced. His clever cutback created the Cranes’ only goal, capping an encouraging display.
Aziz Kayondo – 5/10
Tasked with stopping Achouri, Kayondo endured a tough evening. Booked early, he was often overloaded with Achouri receiving support from the overlapping Valery. Worked hard but was under constant pressure.
Jordan Obita – 5/10
Saw plenty of the ball, recording more touches than any other player on the pitch. He tried to build from the back and offered composure in possession, though Uganda still struggled to progress effectively.
Rogers Torach – 4.5/10
Drafted in due to the absence of Capradossi, Torach looked tidy in possession but struggled defensively. He was slow to react on Tunisia’s second goal, a moment that summed up his night.
Khalid Aucho – 4/10
An uncharacteristically difficult outing for the experienced midfielder. His loose pass was intercepted in the build-up to Tunisia’s second goal, and he appeared uncomfortable when pressed by Hannibal Mejbri and Ferjani Sassi.
Kenneth Ssemakula – 4/10
Lost Skhiri for the opening goal and found himself overpowered in midfield. Tunisia’s energy and movement, particularly from Mejbri, often left him chasing shadows.
Melvyn Lorenzen – 3/10
Showed effort and willingness but failed to deliver in the final third. His lack of impact saw him withdrawn at halftime.
Rogers Mato – 5/10
A subdued display from one of Uganda’s key attacking threats. He did have a promising first-half chance, but it was well defended, and he struggled to influence proceedings thereafter.
Steven Mukwala – 4/10
Isolated for long spells and received limited service. When a chance finally came his way in the second half, he fired well wide. Replaced by James Bogere.
Jude Ssemugabi – 3/10
Found the going extremely tough and failed to impose himself. His struggles led to an early substitution at the break.
Substitutes
Travis Mutyaba – 5/10
Provided more drive than Lorenzen after coming on. Confident in taking on defenders, though he was often outmuscled.
Denis Omedi – 5/10
Scored Uganda’s only goal late on, showing good awareness in the box. Aside from the strike, his overall contribution was steady rather than standout.
Al Hassan Baba – 4/10
Introduced in midfield and quickly picked up a booking. He kept things simple, completing all of his passes, but made limited impact defensively.
James Bogere – 4/10
A historic AFCON appearance for the 17-year-old, who replaced Mukwala. He showed promise but could not influence the game significantly.
Allan Okello – 5/10
Came on late and added some creativity. He played a role in the build-up to Omedi’s goal, offering a glimpse of what he can bring.
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