The Cranes of Uganda got the job done again on Sunday with a second consecutive 1-0 FIFA World Cup qualifying victory over East African rivals Rwanda, moving them firmly into second place as the lone team capable of challenging Group E leaders Mali. Fahad Bayo’s second goal in two games put Uganda on eight points through four games, two behind Les Aigles with Rwanda being officially eliminated from contention following the result.
Uganda put more focus into generating attacks compared to the road encounter in Kigali earlier this week, and took early control of the match. The Cranes were particularly dangerous on set pieces once again and their first major opportunity fell in the 10th minute. After an enterprising run from Steven Mukwala earned a free kick on the right wing, Isaac Muleme whipped in an inswinging ball that temptingly bounced through the Rwandan penalty area but nobody could find the finishing touch.
However, Muleme was back at it again with his set piece deliveries in the 22nd minute, and the crucial breakthrough occurred for the hosts. A corner kick from the right flank looked like it was going to be cleared, but Rwanda forward Meddie Kagere’s attempt at a volleyed clearance instead turned into a flick on to the far post, where Bayo was waiting to direct an accurate header past goalkeeper Emery Mvuyekure and into the net.
With their excellent defensive record and the struggles both teams have had finding the net, Uganda knew the match was in their hands and proceeded to firm things up in their half. Rwanda had a chance early in the second half but a header off a free kick was bounced over the Ugandan goal. In the final seconds of the match, a cross for Rwanda was cleared just beyond the edge of the penalty area where a volley was thundered over the bar.
Another shutout for Uganda means the Cranes still have yet to concede a goal through their four matches, and they remain strongly in contention. Highlights are in the link below.
