The Uganda Cranes’ journey at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 got off to a rocky start with a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia in their Group C opener at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Despite a spirited second-half resurgence, Uganda were unable to overcome a determined Tunisian side, leaving fans across the nation crestfallen.
Back home, social media and sports forums erupted with frustration, as passionate supporters expressed their disappointment over the team’s underwhelming first-half performance.
Introduced late in the match, forward Allan Okello made an immediate impact, orchestrating Uganda’s lone goal through substitute Dennis Omedi in the 78th minute.
Omedi, also brought on in the second half, capitalized on Okello’s intelligent through-ball to slot past the Tunisian keeper, giving Ugandan fans something to cheer about.
Though disappointed, the Cranes are refusing to dwell on the loss. Both players and management are focusing squarely on the next challenge — a crucial East African derby against regional rivals Tanzania, set for Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 8:30 PM (EAT), at the same Rabat venue.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, forward Allan Okello acknowledged the setback but remained optimistic.
“We didn’t start the way we wanted, but it is a tournament and we know what we need to do right to get a good result,” said Okello, who has been in fine club form recently but was left on the bench for the Tunisia clash.
Head coach Paul Put echoed that sentiment, praising his team’s improved intensity in the second half against Tunisia.
“The reaction in the second half was encouraging. We raised our aggression and started to create chances. This is the level we must start with from the first whistle in the next game,” Put emphasized.
With pressure mounting, the Belgian tactician urged his players to show resilience ahead of the Tanzania showdown.
“We have to stand up, we have to believe, and give a good performance to make everybody in Uganda happy,” Put declared. “It’s now about character. We must respond with pride and determination.”
The upcoming clash with Tanzania is more than just regional bragging rights — it’s a must-win encounter if Uganda hopes to keep their knockout stage dreams alive.
The two East African nations have a long-standing football rivalry, and with both teams likely starting from the same point after their opening matches, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Kickoff for the Uganda vs Tanzania match is scheduled for 8:30 PM (EAT) on Saturday, December 27, 2025.
