Uganda’s 1–1 draw with Tanzania on a stormy night in Rabat will be remembered for Allan Okello’s missed stoppage-time penalty, but beyond the heartbreak lay important lessons for the Cranes as their AFCON campaign hangs in the balance.
From tactical tweaks to personnel calls, here are five key takeaways from a game that swung wildly but ultimately settled into frustration.
The Cranes function better without Khalid Aucho in the XI
Captain Khalid Aucho’s absence from the starting lineup proved instructive. With Alhassan Baba stepping into midfield, Uganda looked more fluid in possession and quicker in transitions.
Baba offered bite without slowing the tempo, allowing the Cranes to circulate the ball with greater purpose. It was a reminder that leadership can come from balance and cohesion, not just armband authority.
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Kenneth Semakula belongs at right-back, not in midfield
Uganda looked more secure and progressive when specialists occupied their natural roles.
Alhassan Baba and Bobosi Byaruhanga provide greater range, discipline and energy in midfield, while Kenneth Semakula’s strengths, positioning, recovery pace and crossing, are best utilized from the flank, at the back.
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Okello makes Uganda better – start him, always
Even on a night that ended in personal agony, Allan Okello underlined his importance. His movement, link-up play and bravery on the ball lifted Uganda whenever he was involved.
The missed penalty should not overshadow his influence. If anything, Rabat reinforced the argument that Okello must be a guaranteed starter, not an afterthought, as was the case against Tunisia.
A big night awaits in Fez. Uganda vs Nigeria.
Tuesday, 30th December 2025#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/MYi3g9RNPm
— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) December 29, 2025
Mutyaba and Okello can thrive together
There is a growing case for deploying Travis Mutyaba and Allan Okello in the same starting XI. Mutyaba operating centrally, with Okello drifting from the wing, gives Uganda creativity between the lines and unpredictability in wide areas.
Together, they stretch defence, draw fouls and inject urgency, a combination capable of troubling any backline at this tournament. They did superbly against Tanzania.
Uche Ikpeazu must lead the line from the start
Uche Ikpeazu’s late equalizer was more than a goal; it was a statement. His physical presence, aerial dominance and ability to occupy center-backs add a dimension Uganda sorely lacks.
Compared to Jude Ssemugabi, who came into AFCON after months without competitive football, Ikpeazu looks sharper and more assured. Going forward, the Cranes need his power from the first whistle, not just as a late rescue option.
