Rabat, Morocco: Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has publicly shielded starboy Allan Okello following the midfielder’s late penalty miss in Uganda’s 1–1 draw with Tanzania Taifa Stars in their Group C clash at the Africa Cup of Nations, saying even the best players like Messi miss such crucial spot kicks sometimes.
Stepping out into the rain after a dramatic contest in Rabat, Put focused on performance and mentality rather than regret, insisting his side showed progress and belief despite the painful late twist.
“We created chances, we played good football, and we were in the game,” Put said. “Unfortunately, that’s football. We had a clear chance to win. It’s difficult, but I told the players to keep their heads up.”
Uganda had started the derby on a high note, but failed to find a breakthrough until Tanzania took the lead in the 59th minute when midfielder Baba Alhassan was penalised for handball in the area, allowing Saimon Msuva to convert superbly from the spot.
The Taifa Stars’ lead was cancelled in the 81st minute when substitute Karl Uche Ikpeazu powered home a diving header to restore parity, intensifying the Cranes’ pressure to find a winner.
With the game still even until the 90th minute, Uganda were awarded a penalty after James Bogere was brought down in the box, and Vipers SC midfielder Allan Okello stepped up to fire Cranes ahead, but, unfortunately, his effort sailed over the bar, allowing Tanzania to hold on for a point.
Amid the raging insults and scolding from fans back home and abroad, Put was quick to defend his midfielder for the panelty miss, offering perspective and empathy rather than blame.
“Even Messi misses penalties sometimes. He’s human,” Put said, commenting on the midfielder’s penalty miss that could have taken Cranes to a crucial victory and 3 points, a boost to advancing from the group. “He took responsibility. He missed; it can happen. Maybe next game he scores, and we are all happy. That’s football.”
Looking ahead, Put said lessons would be drawn swiftly, with video analysis central as Uganda seek sharper finishing ahead of the decisive final group match.
Elsewhere in Group C, Nigeria Super Eagles secured qualification for the knockout stages with a 3–2 win over Tunisia, leaving the final round to determine who joins them.
Tunisia face Tanzania on Tuesday, December 30, while Uganda take on Nigeria. Both matches kick off at 7:00 pm EAT.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
