By Robert Kayindi James
With less than a week to the kick-off of the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) finals in Rwanda, Uganda Cranes have intensified their preparations ahead of the tournament.
The Cranes played out to a one-all draw with Gabon in a buildup international friendly played at the FUFA technical center in Njeru, Jinja on Sunday afternoon.
Vipers’ Erisa Ssekisambu gave Uganda the lead in the 33rd minute when he headed from Dennis Okot’s cross from the right flank.
Second half substitute Ronald Ntsistgui came on for Allen Dorian Biyoghe to bring matters to level when he notched the equalizer for the Gabonese with about four minutes left on the clock to the final whistle.
Being a buildup match, Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Micho Sredojevic used it to test the ability of his players hence making numerous changes.
Goalkeeper Mathias Kigonya replaced starter Ismail Watenga, Muzamiru Mutyaba came on for team skipper Farouk Miya while Soana’s Francis Olaki replaced Caesar Samson Okhuti.
Midfielder Ivan Ntege replaced Erisa Ssekisambu while Robert Ssentongo paved way for teammate Frank Kalanda.
Uganda returns to action on Wednesday 13th when they host Cameroon at the same venue in another international friendly match.
Uganda Cranes starting XI: Ismail Watenga, Dennis Okot Oola, Richard Kasagga Jjuuko, Joseph Ochaya, Bernard Muwanga, Timothy Dennis Awany, Erisa Ssekisambu, Kezironi Kizito, Robert Ssentongo, Samson Ceasar Okhuti and Farouk Miya (captain)
Email Robert: Robert.k.cricles@gmail.com