Farouk Miya’s wonder strike against Mali in the last group game that ended Cranes’ long wait has been named by CNN, the goal of the week! The 70th minute strike was Uganda’s first goal at the tournament after a 39 year wait. It was Cranes’ only goal at tournament.
In the Mali game, Cranes came close several times with Luwagga Kizito on the offensive in the first half only to be denied by the pool of water in the soggy pitch. In the 68th minute, Tony Mawejje goal was ruled out after a little flick on Ochaya who was trapped in offside position.
Farouk Miya delivered the dream goal two minutes later. It is a historic goal that will be remembered for years as that goal that ushers Uganda’s grand return as a regular to the tournament…well that is what we all hope for. Farouk also slotted the goal that guaranteed Cranes’ Afcon qualification.
The Cranes talisman also scooped the Man of the match award for his exploits.
Cranes were eliminated in the group stages after they narrowly lost out on both occasions against continental giants Egypt and Ghana 1-0. Both of the two teams have progressed to the semi-finals, something that speaks volumes about Cranes fight in Gabon.