By Spy Uganda
Cairo: Uganda surprised the world and everyone watching the African Cup of Nations by beating Democratic Republic of Congo 2-0 on Saturday at a near empty Cairo International Stadium, illustrating the perennial problem of fan attendance when the home team isn’t playing.
Both Uganda’s goals came through headers from set-pieces. Uganda Cranes were the better team in all departments – more organised, more dynamic, smarter and sharper. KCCA FC striker Patrick Kaddu gave the Cranes a lead after 14 minutes with a beautiful header from Farouk Miya’s corner. Three minutes into the second-half, Emmanuel Okwi doubled Uganda’s lead with an impressive header after another cross from Farouk Miya. On the other hand, Uganda had several o chances to score more goals, but settled for the 2-0 victory. DR Congo tried getting back into the game and nearly got one back through Jonathan Bolingi in the 69th minute, but his smart header hit the cross-bar.
The win puts Uganda top of group A ahead of Egypt on goal difference, while Zimbabwe and DR Congo sit third and fourth with zero points. Kaddu scored in Kaddu and Okwi scored the goal from set pieces but Uganda were also dominant in open play. This was an impressive performance and sets them up nicely for possible progression to the next round. DR Congo were frankly dreadful.
