Uganda emerged victorious in their CECAFA U-20 Championship encounter against Zanzibar, securing a 2-1 victory at Bukhungu Stadium.
Coach Morley Byekwaso commended his team’s unwavering commitment, attributing their success to their determined performance throughout the match.
“From the first minute of the game we showed that we wanted to win. The character of the players was good. There are a few mistakes we going to work on and before our next game we shall have rectified them,” noted Byekwaso.
Travis Mutyaba opened the scoring for Uganda in the 17th minute, unleashing a powerful shot past Zanzibar goalkeeper Hamad Hamad.
Zanzibar responded with an equalizer in the 41st minute courtesy of Moh’d Ali Moh’d, following a well-orchestrated buildup involving Arqm Zubeir and Shehani Khamis.
Zanzibar’s hopes were dashed when two of their scoring opportunities were nullified due to offside and foul calls made by second assistant referee Renovat Bizumuremyi from Burundi.
In a dramatic turn of events, an own goal by Nassor Mbarouk in the 65th minute restored Uganda’s lead. Both teams currently hold four points in Group B alongside Tanzania and South Sudan.
In another Group B match, South Sudan edged past Tanzania with a 2-1 victory. Ngong Garang and Christopher Ungom found the back of the net for South Sudan, while John Misheto netted a consolation goal for Tanzania.
Uganda’s fate hinges on their ability to overcome South Sudan in their final group stage match on Saturday to secure a spot in the semifinals. Tanzania, on the other hand, will face Zanzibar in their crucial encounter.
Uganda U18 Line up
Starting XI
- Etuta Bieven Siraje, Namaisi Stephen, Mpasa Swabir, Mukisa Simon, Anguti Amagu Louis (C) , Kisolo Innocent, Mutebi Hakim, Mutyaba Travis, Mayanja Abubaker, Kyeyune Abasi, Yiga Alex
Substitutes
- Magada Abdu, Wandera Hakim, Kaye Ronald, Batiibwe Okello Charles, Katongole Frank, Kisiriko Denis, Ssekajugo Vianne, Karungi Abusaid, Okello Richard
This tournament serves as a valuable opportunity for players to hone their skills in preparation for the upcoming AFCON U-20 Qualifiers next year.
Courtesy Photos
