Uganda travelled to Ghana to force the Black Stars to a goalless draw in their Group E opener played at the Tamale Stadium on Friday.

The Cranes basking in excitement following their qualification to the TOTAL Africa Cup of Nations Gabon 2017 proved a hard nut for the Black Stars with their defensive organization and tactical discipline throughout the match.

The visitors coached by Serbian Milutin Sredojevic, stayed stable for a good spell in the first half, enjoying settled and comfortable early moments.

In between play, it was Mamelodi Sundowns giant goalkeeper Denis Onyango who made sure Uganda returned to Kampala with a point with some game changing saves when called to duty.

The visitors almost opened the scored in 20 minutes when Khalid Aucho was unable to utilize a fine set up from Farouk Miya.

After a two-minute cooling break on the half hour mark, the homers emerged the more attacking side and were unlucky to go ahead three minutes on when Jordan Ayew missed from a close range.

The Stars completely took over attack, creating several chances with all going wasted with captain Asamoah Gyan and Christian Atsu all missing opportunities.

The Black Stars came close again in the 67th minute when Daniel Amartey’s header from an Ayew corner was brilliantly parried by Onyango.

Few minutes later, Ghana defender John Boye also saw his header from a yet again Ayew corner missed by inches as the visitors held on to snatch a vital point off the Black Stars.

Congo host Egypt in the other Group E clash on Sunday in Kintele.

Source: Confederation of African Football.