The curtains to the 2011 Cecafa Tusker Challenge finally fell with last year’s runner’s-up Uganda Cranes emerging Champions after edging out Rwanda 3-2 on post-match penalties. The scintillating end to end encounter was played at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.For their win Uganda pocketed 30,000 USD while runners-up Rwanda got a 20,000 USD.
Rwanda had the first chance of the game. Joint lead scorer Olivier Karekezi’s shot was blocked by Mwesigwa early on. Uganda’s Mike Sserumaga had several long range shots. Tony Mawejje had the last effort of goal as the teams went to the break deadlocked at nil nil but the Cranes had an upper hand.
Meddie Kagera gave Rwanda the lead six minutes after the break .Iranzi set him through with a nice pass then he easily beat Mwesigwa on pace before firing past keeper Abbey Dhaira.
The goal sparked some life into the game as both teams opting for all attack minded approach.
Uganda’s Sula Matovu shot was denied by the crossbar as Rwanda who looked dangerous on the counter also squandered several opportunities.
Isaac Isinde equalized for the Uganda Cranes in the 77th minute after Ndili failed to clear a corner.
Rwanda restored their lead again a minute later through Meddie Kagera whose great skills saw him outwit the Cranes defenders before sending a low shot on the edge of the post.
Just like the Cranes,Rwanda’s celebrations were cut shot as Olivier Karekezi headed into his own net following a corner to make the scoreline 2-2 and push the game to extra time.
After 120 minutes of action, no winner had been found and spot kicks had to separate the two sides.Both sides scored their first penalty but Uganda squandered the next two but recovered to make it 3 out of 5 .Keeper Dhaira saved the last kick to hand his side their 12th Cecafa title.
The win will serve as a consolation to the Uganda Cranes fans after their team failed to qualify for the 2013 Africa Cup of nations tournament.
Uganda beat host Tanzania 3-1 enroute to the final while Rwanda secured the spot with a 2-1 win over Sudan.
In an earlier match played at the same stadium,Sudan won the 3rd place playoff battle courtesy of a solo strike from substitute Shaikh Eldin in the 83rd minute.The Falcons went home 10,000 USD richer for finishing third.
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