Uganda were left to rue a missed opportunity on Saturday evening after Allan Okello failed to convert a late penalty in a 1-1 draw with Tanzania in their second Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Cranes found themselves trailing midway through the second half after conceding a penalty following a handball by Baba Alhassan inside the box. Despite his protests, the referee pointed to the spot, handing Tanzania a golden chance to take the lead.
Simon Msuva made no mistake, calmly sending the ball into the top left corner beyond the reach of Denis Onyango to put the Taifa Stars ahead.
Uganda responded with increased urgency and were rewarded ten minutes from time when Uche Ikpeazu hauled his side back into the contest. The striker showed bravery and determination as he threw himself at a cross from Denis Omedi, powering a close-range header past Zuberi Foba to restore parity.
The match appeared set to end level until late drama unfolded in the closing stages. Tanzania defender Haji Mnoga was penalised for holding in the box, and after a brief consultation with the assistant referee, the referee awarded Uganda a penalty.
With the chance to snatch all three points, Okello stepped up but sent his effort narrowly over the crossbar, much to the frustration of the Ugandan bench and supporters.
The missed spot-kick proved decisive, as both sides settled for a share of the spoils in a result that keeps Group C finely balanced heading into the final round of fixtures.
