After disappointing starts to their Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, Uganda and Tanzania meet on Saturday at Stade El Barid in Rabat, each desperate to turn their fortunes around.

With elimination looming for the loser, both teams are determined to keep their dreams alive in Africa’s most prestigious tournament.

Uganda’s Cranes stumbled out of the gate, suffering a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia in their tournament opener.

With early elimination hanging over them, Paul Put’s squad is eager to overcome Tanzania, though recent performances cast doubt on their chances.

The defeat to Tunisia marked Uganda’s third loss in four games, with just a single victory breaking up a worrying run.

Their AFCON record paints an even bleaker picture, with six losses in their last nine matches in the competition.

Uganda now faces the threat of suffering three consecutive defeats for the first time since November 2023.

A loss here would all but dash their hopes of advancing, especially with powerhouse Nigeria looming in their final group match.

Still, Uganda will sense an opportunity against a Tanzanian side struggling to find its rhythm.

Tanzania’s woes run deep, with eight winless games in a row and five straight defeats weighing heavily on the squad.

Tuesday’s loss to Nigeria stretched Tanzania’s search for a first-ever AFCON win to ten matches, a run marked by three draws and seven defeats.

Hemed Suleiman’s side last tasted victory in early August, edging past Madagascar 2-1 in a hard-fought contest.

Yet, with four goals in their last two games, including one against Nigeria, the Taifa Stars have rediscovered some attacking spark after three goalless outings.

Still, defensive frailties persist, with no clean sheets in seven matches and a worrying tally of 12 goals conceded.