Matchday Two in Group C produced unexpected drama as Uganda and Tanzania battled to a pulsating 1–1 draw in a fixture many had predicted would lack excitement, only for it to deliver one of the most thrilling contests of the tournament so far.
For much of the encounter, neither side could find a breakthrough until the referee awarded Tanzania a penalty after Alhassan handled the ball in the box.
Also read: Mané Strike secures draw as Senegal hold DR Congo in AFCON Group D clash
Simon Msuva stepped up confidently and converted from the spot in the 59th minute to give the Taifa Stars the lead.
Uganda appeared shaken but gradually regrouped and were rewarded late on when substitute Uche Ikpeazu rose highest to head home the equaliser in the 80th minute, breathing new life into the Cranes.
The closing stages were frantic and chaotic, with Uganda missing a penalty and Tanzania wasting golden scoring opportunities, but neither side managed to grab a decisive winner.
The result leaves both teams under severe pressure heading into the final round of matches, each with only one point and facing a must-win scenario to stand any chance of qualifying for the Round of 16.
Once again, AFCON proved its unpredictability, turning a low-profile fixture into a gripping football spectacle.