Uganda wins first game at AFCON since 1978
Good news for the Impact: midfielder Micheal Azira, who was in Egypt representing Uganda in the Africa Cup of Nations, is officially back in Montreal after the Cranes were edged out 1-0 by Senegal in the round of 16. Azira will now be available for the Impact as soon as this Wednesday, when the club kicks off the third round of the Canadian Championship against York 9 FC.
As far as Uganda is concerned, it was a close game as well; they had their opportunities, attempting more shots on target than their opponent, but a clinical strike from Liverpool striker Sadio Mané in the 15th minute was enough for the Lions of Teranga in the end.
Uganda drew Senegal after finishing second in their group behind the hosts, Egypt, the only team to beat them in the group stage. The Ugandans tied their second game against Zimbabwe, after winning their opening match against DR Congo, marking the first Uganda win at the Africa Cup of Nations since 1978, when they were runners-up.
“Even the president called to congratulate us,” said midfielder Micheal Azira. “That means it meant something to the entire country. That was great, and it was a good moment for us. It felt good to win and have the entire country behind us. It especially felt good to be a part of something bigger than myself.”
“A great experience”
This was Azira’s second continental tournament, after having represented the Cranes during the 2017 edition of the tournament as well. This one was a little more special, considering Uganda managed to qualify for the round of 16, putting up good performances throughout the tournament before their elimination at the hands of Senegal.
It also gave Azira the opportunity to face world-class players he doesn’t get to face every day.
“Playing against players like Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mané was something else,” added Azira. “I mean, they just won the Champions League. It was amazing. At the end of the day though, they’re human, just like us. They’re good players. The quality they have is amazing. But they’re human, and it gives us all something to push towards.”
After its clash in the Canadian Championship, the Impact will return home to take on Toronto FC in a rivalry game on Saturday, July 13, at 7:30pm at Stade Saputo (TICKETS – TVA Sports, TSN, 98.5, TSN 690).
