The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues to deliver high drama, emotion, and tightly contested battles, with Uganda and Tanzania playing out a gripping 1-1 draw in a fiercely fought East African derby that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Played under intense pressure, the Group C encounter saw both sides fight for survival in a group dominated by Nigeria, who sit comfortably at the top with six points. For Uganda and Tanzania, the clash was more than just a regional rivalry it was a must-win contest to keep knockout stage hopes alive.
Tanzania Strike First from the Spot
Tanzania took the lead in the 59th minute after being awarded a penalty following a handball in the Ugandan box. Winger Simon Msuva stepped up calmly and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, giving the Taifa Stars a crucial advantage.
The goal sparked celebrations among Tanzanian fans, while Uganda’s bench looked visibly frustrated, knowing how much was at stake. Despite conceding, the Cranes responded positively, increasing the tempo and pushing numbers forward.
Ikpeazu Rises to the Occasion
Uganda’s persistence finally paid off in the 80th minute when Uche Ikpeazu powered home a towering diving header to level the match. The goal marked Ikpeazu’s first-ever goal for Uganda, a moment of pride for the striker who was born in Uganda to a Nigerian father and a Ugandan mother.
His goal not only rescued a point for the Cranes but also reaffirmed Uganda’s fighting spirit in a tournament where margins are painfully thin.
Uganda Dominant but Wasteful
Statistically, Uganda dominated the match, enjoying more possession and registering more shots on target. However, poor finishing and decisive defending from Tanzania kept the Cranes at bay.
Uganda’s lineup featured the experienced Denis Onyango returning between the posts, supported by Tobby Sibbick, Abdu Aziz Kayondo, Jordan Obita, and a midfield engine driven by Baba Alhassan, Kenneth Semakula, Bobosi Byaruhanga, and Allan Okello. Up front, Jude Ssemugabi, Travis Mutyaba, and Rogers Mato led the attack.
Late Drama and Okello’s Missed Penalty
The match reached its emotional peak in stoppage time when Uganda were awarded a penalty in the 91st minute. The Cranes stood just one kick away from a famous victory.
However, Allan Okello’s penalty set in air, sending shockwaves through the stadium and leaving the Ugandan bench and supporters in disbelief. Reactions poured in across Uganda, with many fans convinced the Cranes would have secured all three points had the penalty been converted.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-1 draw a result that felt like a loss for Uganda and a relief for Tanzania.
Group C Situation Heats Up
With both teams now sitting on one point each, Group C remains wide open behind Nigeria’s six points. Uganda will face the daunting task of playing the Super Eagles, while Tanzania prepare to take on Tunisia in decisive final group matches scheduled for December 30.
Egypt Show Grit against South Africa
Elsewhere in the tournament, AFCON 2025 continued to showcase its trademark intensity in another dramatic Group clash between Egypt and South Africa.
Egypt were reduced to 10 men in the first half after right-back Hanny was shown a red card, putting the Pharaohs under immense pressure early in the game. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Egypt displayed resilience and tactical discipline.
The decisive moment came when Mohamed Salah converted a penalty after a lawful handblow by South Africa defender Khuliso Mudau. Salah’s composure from the spot sealed a vital 1-0 victory for Egypt, proving once again why they remain one of Africa’s most feared tournament teams.
AFCON 2025 Living Up to Expectations
From last-minute penalties to red cards and dramatic comebacks, AFCON 2025 is living up to its reputation as one of the most unpredictable and emotionally charged tournaments in world football.
As the group stages near their conclusion, every match feels like a final. For teams like Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, and Egypt, the margin between heartbreak and glory is razor-thin and the tournament promises even more tension as the knockout rounds draw closer.
