Uganda Cranes Hero Rogers Mato Highlights Impact of Tunisia Draw on Paul Put’s Team Ahead of Libya Clash

Uganda Cranes forward Rogers Mato believes the team's performance and hard-earned draw against Tunisia on Thursday will significantly boost squad morale.

Mato was the hero for Uganda, scoring the equaliser as the team fought back from a goal down to secure a point at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in Rades. The match marked the beginning of their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign.

The Carthage Eagles took an early lead through Alaa Arous in the 12th minute. However, Uganda remained resilient, and Mato found the back of the net in the 68th minute to level the score.

"I want to thank my fellow players for the fight they showed today," Mato said after the match. "We worked as a team and kept our composure even when we went a goal down."

He highlighted the significance of the result, stating, "If you look at our previous meetings with Tunisia, this was the first time we've gotten a point off them. We are happy, especially since it came away from home, and this gives us confidence going forward."

Mato emphasised that maintaining this level of performance is crucial for building momentum ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Uganda will co-host.

"We all know that our slot at AFCON 2027 is guaranteed, but we need to do well in these qualifiers and keep the momentum going because that builds our confidence," he explained.

With the Tunisia match behind them, Uganda now turns its attention to a home fixture against Libya, scheduled for Tuesday, September 29th, at Hoima City Stadium.