In a thrilling final witnessed by a packed Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Uganda battled back from a goal down to defeat hosts Kenya 2-1 and claim the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship title.
Despite both sides creating opportunities in the first half, the game remained goalless at halftime.
The tension rose in the second half when Syphas Otieno Owuor broke the deadlock for Kenya in the 65th minute.
However, Uganda refused to surrender, and Batiibwe Okello equalized just 12 minutes later, forcing the game into extra time.
The decisive moment arrived in extra time when Hakim Mutebi found the back of the net for Uganda, securing a dramatic come-from-behind victory and their first-ever title in the competition.
Coach Morley Byekwaso hailed his players’ character for the remarkable comeback.
“The players have accomplished the job and lifted the title,” Byekwaso expressed.
Midfielder Travis Mutyaba, instrumental throughout the tournament, attributed the victory to the team’s resilience.
“We worked so hard and showed determination, even after losing our first match against Tanzania,” Mutyaba remarked.
In the third-place match, Tanzania defeated Rwanda 3-1, with Zidane Ally Sereri, Said Said, and John Misheto scoring for the Tanzanian side, while Didie Ndayishiniye netted for Rwanda.
Courtesy Photos
