Senegal dump Uganda out of CHAN

Reigning champions Senegal are through to the semifinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after edging co-hosts Uganda 1-0 in a tense quarterfinal clash at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Saturday.

Oumar Ba’s 61st-minute strike was the difference in a match dominated by defensive discipline and missed chances, as the West African side booked a last four date with Madagascar, who eliminated Kenya on Friday.

Uganda's exit marked the end of road for East Africa after other co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania crashed out of the 19-team championship on Friday.

Both sides started cautiously, with Senegal first threatening in the third minute when Libasse Gueye forced goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa into a smart save. 

Uganda grew into the game, creating half-chances through Allan Okello and Mugweri Kizito, but failed to truly test Arona Diouf in the Senegalese goal.

The first half ended goalless, marked by few clear-cut opportunities and yellow cards for Uganda's Herbrt Achai and senegal's Moussa Cissé.

After the restart, Uganda pressed hard, attacking down the flanks in search of an opener, but Senegal’s compact backline stood firm. 

The breakthrough arrived in the 61st minute when a cross from the left found Oumar Ba inside the box, and he controlled before rifling home to put the West Africans ahead.

Uganda, roared on by home support, pushed forward relentlessly in search of an equaliser, but were frustrated by Senegal’s well-drilled defense. 

Substitute Layousse nearly doubled the visitors’ lead in the 80th minute, flashing a shot just wide. Despite enjoying long spells of possession, Uganda could not find a way through.

The Cranes’ frustration grew as time ticked away, and with Senegal expertly slowing the tempo, Uganda’s hopes faded.

After four minutes of stoppage time, the referee blew for full-time, confirming Senegal’s progression and Uganda’s elimination.