Uganda suffer shock home defeat to Madagascar ahead of Ghana clash

Aerial action during the game. Emmanuel Okwi (7), Derrick Nsibambi (11) and Milton Karisa (23) in a challenge to head the ball fin search for a goal

Ghana's opponents in Saturday's World Cup qualifier, Uganda, suffered a major confidence jolt on Wednesday when they defeated 2-1 at home at the hands of Madagascar just three days before the crucial clash.

The Cranes lost the practice match played against Island nation Madagascar at the StarTimes stadium in Lugogo, exposing some weaknesses in the side.

The result will boost the confidence of the Black Stars that they can go to Kampala and get the result that can keep alive their slim hopes of qualifying for the World Cup.

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) fc midfielder Muzamiru Mutyaba gave Cranes the lead after 28 minutes as Uganda took control of the game into the half time break.

*Aerial action during the game. Emmanuel Okwi (7), Derrick Nsibambi (11) and Milton Karisa (23) in a challenge to head the ball fin search for a goal*

*Striker Edrisa Lubega (R) races to the ball during the first half*

Rio Carlous Anoriananicinos scored twice in the second half for the maximum points.

Carlous’ goals came in the 49th and 88th minutes to give Madagascar a famous victory.

Uganda Cranes’ technical team used two different teams for either halves.

Team captain and first choice goalkeeper Dennis Onyango was the only un-used substitute in the match.

*Uganda Cranes XI vs Madagascar that started the practice match.*

Uganda is preparing for for the up-coming 2018 FIFA World Cup group E qualifier against Ghana Black Stars this Saturday at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

*FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (third from right) with the other officials at Lugogo watch the match proceedings*

*The technical team and the substitute players*

*Uganda Cranes captain of the day Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (L) with the Madagascar skipper Ina Faneva Andriatasina with the match referees prior to kickoff*

The team will regroup for Thursday training at Mandela National Stadium, starting 4 p.m.

Team Line ups:

Uganda Cranes XI: Ismail Watenga (G.K), Denis Iguma, Godfrey Walusimbi, Savio Kabugo, Isaac Isinde, Tonny Mawejje, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, William Luwagga Kizito, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Edrisa Lubega, Joseph Ochaya

Uganda Cranes (Second half team):

Benjamin Ochan (GK), Nico Wakiro Wadada, Isaac Muleme, Bernard Muwanga, Milton Karisa, Emma Okwi, Geoffrey Serunkuma, Ivan Ntege, Farouk Miya, Timothy Awanyi, Derrick Nsibambi

Sub Not Used: Denis Onyango (GK)

Madagascar XI: Ibrahim Dabo (GK), Ranbelosn Toavina, Pascal Razakanantenaina, Thomas Fontaine, Nonenjana Lalaina (62’ Patrick Herimanjaarivo) , Jean Raherinarimanana, Calsin Dimitry, Randrinbololuna Zotsara, Rio Carlous Anoriananicinos, Ina Faneva Andriatsina, Ferdinard Ramananahera (75’ Hery Randriaitara,)

Subs Not Used: Ramaritany Damien (GK), Michel Randriantenaina

Referees:

Center Referee: Mashood Ssali
1^stAssistant Referee: Musa Balikoowa
2^nd Assistant Referee: Lee Okello
4^th Official: Brian Miiro Nsubuga
Match Commissioner: Ali Waiswa

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