Uganda Cranes played to a goal-less stalemate with Burundi during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup group B match played at Bukhungu stadium in Kakamega on Monday.
It was a game of missed opportunities from either countries as the respective backlines rose to the occasion to tame and thwart any danger where it mattered.
Head Coach Moses Basena handed KCCA midfielder Allan Kateregga his much awaited debut in national team colours before he was later replaced by Hood Kaweesa after 55 minutes.
Newly crowned Airtel FUFA Most Valuable Player, Muzamiru Mutyaba teased and tested his opponents.
In fact, Mutyaba had one of the best chances at goal with a long range effort easily saved by the Burundi goalkeeper.
The Ugandan backline was also at its best, blocking attempts at goal from the Burundi forwards.
Right from the goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan, right back Nico Wakiro Wadada, left back Isaac Muleme to the two central defenders Timothy Awanyi and captain Bernard Muwanga, the defence was alert to tame any danger and risk of conceding.
Wadada at one moment was perfectly positioned to clear off the line a goal bound shot at goal in the dying minutes of the game.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI:
Benjamin Ochan (GK), Wadada Nicholas, Isaac Muleme, Timothy Awany, Bernard Muwanga (C), Taddeo Lwanga, Allan Kyambadde, Derrick Nsibambi, Milton Karisa, Allan Kateregga and Mutyaba Muzamiru.
Changes:
55′ Tadeo Lwanga Out, Nelson Senkatuka In
58′ Allan Kateregga Out, Hood Kaweesa In
66′ Milton Karisa Out, Paul Mucureezi In
Un-used Substitutes:
Watenga Ismail, Ikara Tom, Isiagi Opolot Daniel, Bakaki Shafiq, Nsubuga Joseph, Madoi Aggrey, Saddam Juma Ibrahim, Masiko Tom
