By Robert Kayindi James
Uganda’s quest for a 14th title of the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup continues on Thursday, 3rd December 2015 in Addis Ababa at the semi-final stage with a duel against hosts Ethiopia who will have all the home advantage.
The Cranes beat Malawi 2-0 to reach the last-four stage while the Walia ibex edged Tanzania 4-3 on penalties that followed a one-all draw in normal time to reach the semis.
It’s no secret that Uganda is using the annual tournament as a buildup campaign for the January 2016 CHAN finals that will be played in Rwanda but with the defending champions of Kenya out, it’s no longer just a buildup, the title is also at stake.
The Harambe Stars where knocked out by the Amavubi Stars of Rwanda on a 5-3 penalty score that followed a goalless draw in normal time.
Uganda being the record champions of Africa’s oldest regional tournament with a count of 13 titles will look to be the better side against an Ethiopian side that have only won the title 4-times with their last coming a decade ago (2005).
Cranes captain Farouk Miya is already determined to bring silverware home as he vowed after their quarter final victory against Malawi.
Uganda last won the title in 2012 when they hosted the tournament.