Under the lights in Rabat, two East African rivals fought out a tense 1-1 draw that leaves both teams clinging to slim hopes of knockout qualification. Neither side could find a winning goal, and the shared point feels like a loss for both.
Tanzania strike from the spot
Simon Msuva stepped up with ice in his veins after referee Jalal Jayed pointed to the penalty spot. The Taifa Stars had been awarded the kick following a handball by Baba Alhassan in the box, and Msuva made no mistake, rifling his effort into the top corner.
The goal was Tanzania's first of the tournament after their narrow 2-1 defeat to Nigeria. Manager Miguel Gamondi had demanded more character, and his players delivered in a crucial moment.
Ikpeazu's aerial prowess
Uganda's response was swift and direct. Uche Ikpeazu, the target man who has built his career on physical presence, rose highest to head home from Denis Omedi's cross. The equaliser came from a classic route one approach, with the Cranes using their height advantage to bypass Tanzania's compact midfield.
The goal was Ikpeazu's first for Uganda in a major tournament and showcased exactly why coach Paul Put persists with him despite limited build-up involvement.
Tactical stalemate
The second half descended into a war of attrition. Uganda's dominance in possession—nearly 60%—yielded few clear chances as Tanzania defended in numbers. The Taifa Stars' back five held firm, with goalkeeper Zuberi Foba making crucial interventions when the aerial bombardment threatened.
Tanzania's counter-attacking threat diminished as legs tired, but their defensive structure never wavered. Six minutes of added time produced frantic scenes but no breakthrough.
What happens next?
The mathematics are brutal. Both teams have one point from two games and face daunting final fixtures. Uganda take on Nigeria, while Tanzania must overcome Tunisia. Realistically, both need to win and hope for favorable results elsewhere.
This derby, the first between these neighbors at AFCON finals, ended in fitting fashion: neither willing to lose, neither quite good enough to win.
Match facts
- First AFCON finals meeting between Uganda and Tanzania
- Uganda's 59.9% possession was their highest of the tournament
- Tanzania recorded zero shots on target until the penalty
- Six yellow cards shown across both teams