By Robert Kayindi James
At a poorly attended match, Uganda Cranes failed their test against Zambia as they lost 1-0 to the visitors in an international friendly match played on Tuesday evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
A first half strike from Lungu Chisamba in the 24th minute gave Chipolopolo the lead that eventually turned out to be the match winner.
Cranes coach Milutin Micho Sredojevic fielded a strong side that saw Robert Odongkara return in the goal posts with team skipper Geoffrey Massa leading the attack line before being substituted for Muzamiru Mutyaba in the second half.
In some of the other substitutions made by the Serbian, Mohammad Jagason Shaban was brought on for William Kizito Luwagga, Nicholas Wadada paved way for Denis Iguma, Tonny Mawejje came off for Geoffrey Sserunkuma while Farouk Miya despite not being on the team sheet produced replaced Godfrey Walusimbi.
The game was a buildup match for both sides as they prepare for their respective encounters in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Uganda will host Congo Brazzaville on Saturday, 12th November, 2016 while Zambia will be heading to Yaoundé to face off with Cameroon.
Uganda Cranes starting XI: Robert Odongkara (GK),Nicholas Wadada, Joseph Ochaya, Murushid Juuko, Isaac Isinde, Khalid Aucho, Moses Oloya, Tonny Mawejje, Geoffrey Massa, William Kizito Luwagga, Godfrey Walusimbi.
Reserves: Salim Jamal, Benjamin Ochan (GK),Timothy Awanyi, Hassan Wasswa, Denis Iguma, Geoffrey ‘Baba’ Kizito, Yassar Mugerwa, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Shafik Batambuze, Muhammad Shaban, Geoffrey Sserunkuma