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Despite the win, the Cranes failed to qualify for the 2023 AFCON as runners-up, as Tanzania drew 0-0 with Algeria to secure the two qualifying spots.
Uganda Cranes secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Niger in the final game of the Africa Cup of Nations at the Marakech Stadium in Morocco on Thursday.
Despite the win, the Cranes failed to qualify for the 2023 AFCON as runners-up, as Tanzania drew 0-0 with Algeria to secure the two qualifying spots.
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Here’s how the Cranes players were rated in this ‘heartbreaking’ victory
Salim Jamal - 7
Dealt with everything that came his way, including a decent first-half save. Had some issues dealing with two corners earlier on.
Elvis Bwomono - 5
Strong in defense throughout both halves but less effective in the opposite half.
Aziz Kayondo - 7
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A miscued cross turned into an excellent goal. He was strong defensively and linked up well with Joseph Ochaya on the left wing.
Halid Lwaliwa - 6
Strong in physical duels with the opponents’ center forwards and decent on the ball.
Bevis Mugabi - 6
The experienced figure in defense, and it showed with his presence.
Khalid Aucho - 6
Tidy on the ball, though the midfield was outrun at times by the Niger players, who dominated possession.
Bobosi Byaruhanga - 5.5
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Not as physically strong as Aucho but linked quite well with his midfield partner and Farouk Miya.
Farouk Miya - 5
Deployed as the chief playmaker but didn’t perform up to his known standards. Showed good energy but was substituted early in the second half.
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Milton Karisa - 6
A tireless hard worker throughout the match, creating a couple of decent deliveries from the right wing. His shot was turned in by Ochaya for the second goal.
Joseph Ochaya - 7
Tireless on the left wing, providing support to Kayondo throughout and scoring with a flashy flick.
Fahad Bayo - 5
Showed good energy as a lone target-man but looked isolated at times due to minimal service. Forced into an early second-half substitution due to injury.
Substitutions
Richard Basangwa - 5
Worked hard after coming on but had no clear opportunities at the goal.
Rogers Mato - 5
Brought on for Miya in a central position but didn’t offer much in an unfamiliar role. Wasted a good opportunity to make it 3-0.
Taddeo Lwanga - N/A
Made a late cameo appearance
Moses Waiswa - N/A
Came on late in the match
Laban Tibita - N/A
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