THE Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) Three-Nation Pre-CHAN Tournament kicked off in Karatu yesterday, with hosts Tanzania's Taifa Stars securing a 1-0 victory over Uganda’s Cranes.

The lone goal of the match came in the 14th minute, courtesy of forward Idd Selemani Nado, who beat two defenders before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box that left Uganda’s goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa with no chance.

Taifa Stars had an opportunity to double their lead later in the first half, but Abdul Suleiman Sopu failed to connect a cross inside the box from Nassoro Saadun, who had dispossessed the Cranes’ defense.

Uganda’s backline -Herbert Achayi, Nicholas Mwere, and Rogers Torach - held firm in the 44th minute, successfully halting a solo run from Saadun as he attempted to weave past them.

The Cranes registered their only real chance of the first half in stoppage time, when goalkeeper Abdul Suleiman made a fine save to deny Jude Ssemugambi’s header from a corner.

In the second half, both teams made several substitutions. The changes appeared to energize Uganda, who began to dominate possession in search of an equalizer.

Uganda midfielder Abdu Karim Watambala forced a strong save from Suleiman in the 51st minute. Just two minutes later, he fired another effort on goal, but Suleiman again responded with a solid punch to clear the danger.

The CECAFA-organized tournament, originally scheduled for July 21–27 in Arusha and Dar es Salaam, serves as a preparatory event for regional teams ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) set to begin early next month.

However, the tournament has faced setbacks, with several teams withdrawing or facing logistical issues. Sudan, Kenya, and Congo Brazzaville pulled out, dealing a significant blow to the event's competitiveness. Meanwhile, Senegal, a late addition to the tournament, has experienced travel delays, prompting CECAFA to reschedule their opening match against hosts Tanzania to July 27.

Taifa Stars Starting Line-Up:
Abdul Suleiman, Shomary Kapombe, Pascal Msindo, Dickson Job, Ibrahim Abdulla, Ahmed Pipino, Mudathir Yahya, Idd Nado, Feisal Salum, Nassoro Saadun, Abdul Suleiman Sopu

Uganda Cranes Starting Line-Up:
Joel Mutakubwa, Govin Kizito, Herbert Achoyi, Nicholas Mwere, Rogers Torach, Marvin Youngman, Jude Ssemugambi, Abdu Karim Watambala, Yunus Sentamu, Allan Okello (captain), Patrick Kakande