Hamis Diego Kiiza who played the entire game for Uganda Cranes against Madagascar this afternoon netted a penalty in added time of the second half but the visitors lost 2-1 in the 1st leg second round qualifier of the 2015 AFCON campaign.
Cranes coach Milutin Micho Sredojevich named an attack minded team as per his earlier promise before flying out of the country on Friday morning.
Kiiza was one of the players named in attack together with Martin Mutumba and Emma Okwi. The midfield had Hassan Wasswa, Baba kizito and Khalid Aucho.
The back line was commanded by captain Andy Mwesigwa and Henry Kalungi in central deface while Denis Iguma at right full back and Joseph Ochaya on the left.m
There was a big and memorable moment for Vipers keeper Ismail Watenga aged just 19 as he was handed his senior debut.
He never disappointed in a game that also saw Fufa super league top scorer Francis Olaki who plays for Soana Fc feature in Madagascar.
Back to the goals, Cranes conceded as early as the 10th and 29th minutes of the game for the home side to take a surprise 2-0 lead.
Kalungi brought down danger man Fabrice Angio for Madagascar to take 1-0 lead from the penalty spot.
Nine minutes later the islanders side doubled their advantage through Njiva Rakotoharimalala.
Half time ended 2-0.
Second half saw Olaki and Brian Majwega come on for Martin Mutumba and Hassan Wasswa respectively.
Second half belonged to the Uganda Cranes as they piled pressure but a disciplined Madagascar defense could not succumb to the pressure.
However late in the game, Daniel Serunkuma came on for Ochaya as the Cranes were desperately looking for that important away strike.
They were paid off with the late surge of pressure that saw a Madagascar defender Tobisoa Njakanirina handle the ball in the penalty area. South African referee Victor Gomes pointed to the penalty spot.
Kiiza stepped up to take the vital kick for Cranes to reduce the deficit.
The return leg will be played on 31st May at Namboole Stadium.
Cranes returns home on Monday night and resume training on Wednesday
