The Uganda Cranes wrapped up their international tour in Morocco with a 1-1 draw against Gambia on Monday, June 9, 2025, in a spirited friendly clash at Stade de Marrakech Annexe.
Rogers Kassim Mato gave Uganda an early lead in the 25th minute, heading in a well-placed corner from Patrick Jonah Kakande. Mato, who plays for Vardar Skopje in North Macedonia, showed excellent timing to finish at the far post.
However, Gambia—coached by former Uganda Cranes boss Jonathan McKinstry—equalized just before halftime. A penalty converted by Hibernian FC’s Alasana Manneh leveled the score after a handball by Uganda’s Jordan Obita inside the box.
In the second half, Uganda suffered a setback when captain and goalkeeper Isima Watenga sustained a knee injury. He was substituted by Joel Mutakubwa and later taken to hospital for assessment.
Looking to bounce back from their previous 3-0 loss to Cameroon, Uganda Cranes coach Paul Joseph Put introduced several fresh legs in the second half, including Hilary Mukundane, Travis Mutyaba, Enock Ssebagala, Denis Omedi, and Shafik Nana Kwikiriza. Despite their efforts and late scoring chances from Omedi and Allan Oyirwoth, the Cranes couldn’t find a winning goal.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI:
Isima Watenga (GK, Captain), Kenneth Semakula, Isaac Muleme, Jordan Obita, Toby Sibbick, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Allan Oyirwoth, Abdu Karim Watambala, Arafat Usama, Rogers Kassim Mato, Patrick Jonah Kakande.
Substitutes:
Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Hannington Ssebwalunyo (GK), Hilary Mukundane, Arnold Odong, Elvis Bwomono, Enock Ssebagala, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Muhammad Shaban, Travis Mutyaba, Denis Omedi, Shafik Nana Kwikiriza, Allan Okello.
The match concluded Uganda’s friendly engagements in North Africa as the team looks ahead to upcoming continental qualifiers with renewed focus.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFsmCdxSXag