Uganda Cranes miss penalty in South Sudan CHAN draw

Juba, South Sudan | AFP |  Uganda had a goal disallowed and a penalty saved when drawing 0-0 with South Sudan Friday in an African Nations Championship (CHAN) second round, first-leg qualifier in Juba.

Derrick Nsibambi had the ball in the net during the first half only to be ruled offside by the Eritrean referee.

A foul on Milton Karisa soon after half-time gave Uganda a chance to take the lead at the national stadium in the South Sudanese capital.

But regular scorer Geoffrey Sserunkuma had his spot-kick superbly saved by Daniel Khamis, which triggered sustained applause from the large crowd.

Robert Wurube had a late opportunity to put South Sudan ahead foiled by a block from substitute defender Brian Majwega.

South Sudan, who eliminated Somalia in the first round after home and away victories, visit Kampala for the return match next Saturday.

#CHAN2018Kenya S/Sudan vs @UgandaCranes Ended 0-0 in Juba @Airtel_Ug @NileSpecial @JanetMuseveni @KagutaMuseveni pic.twitter.com/EbAeFRTC3O

— Uganda FA [FUFA] (@OfficialFUFA) July 14, 2017

The African Nations Championship — popularly known as the CHAN — is restricted to footballers playing in their country of birth.

With many African national squads dominated by Europe-based stars, the CHAN offers international exposure to local footballers.

Another eight qualifiers are scheduled for Saturday with a further six on Sunday.