The Cranes of Uganda began their Afcon 2019 campaign with a resounding 2-0 victory against DR Congo at the Cairo International Stadium this afternoon.

Patrick Kaddu and Emmanuel Okwi were both on target in this enthralling game played under humid conditions.

Cedric Bakambu had an early opportunity in the 11th minute but his effort was well saved by Dennis Onyango.

Uganda went ahead 4 minutes later thanks to a well timed header by Patrick Kaddu who ran to the near post to meet a Farouk Miya corner. No chance for Matampi in the DRC goal.

Kaddu almost doubled the lead on 19 minutes but his header was off target this time.

The Cranes had their tail feathers up and kept on pushing the Leopards to the extreme, Tisserand and Masuaku having to do double shift in defense.

Yannick Bolasie and Cedric Bakambu were having a quiet first half and were not threatening the Ugandans defense setup.

Azira then almost doubled Uganda’s lead 3 minutes from half time but he saw his effort graze the top of the goal post.

Bakambu had a go from inside the box but the big man Onyango was quick to save with the tip if his fingers and push the ball for a corner.

Cranes led at the break and came out in the second half leading on possession.

They were rewarded with a second go, Emmanuel Okwi heading in from another set piece on 49 minutes to stun Florent Ibengé and his DRC side.

Bolingi had a great chance to pull one back but his header cannoned off the top of Onyango’s goal with 69 minutes played.

Okwi who was chasing a brace saw his left footed effort sail over the cross bar after some nimble footwork on the edge of the box.

In the end, the Cranes hold on for a famous win and go top of Group A much to the delight of Sebastian Desabre.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer