Category: CECAFA

The Uganda U18 National Team etched their name in history, securing a heart-stopping 2-1 win against Kenya in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship in a riveting final held at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Kisumu on Friday afternoon. The stadium pulsated with fervour, filled to the brim with passionate Kenyan plus a pick of Ugandan fans, amplifying the intensity of the match.

Despite Kenya taking the lead with an early second-half goal, the Uganda team showcased unwavering determination. Abasi Kyeyune’s electrifying equalizer moments before the final whistle pushed the game into extra time, setting the stage for a nerve-wracking climax.

In a defining moment, Mutebi Hakim, hailed as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, rose to prominence by slotting in Uganda’s winning goal during extra time. His stellar performance throughout the championship culminated in this pivotal moment of triumph.

Post-match, Uganda’s head coach, Morley Byekwaso, acknowledged the intense challenge his side faced during a compelling interview. He lauded his team’s resilience, acknowledging the sheer difficulty of the game and praising their steadfast determination.

Adding to the jubilation, the President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) through EXCOM Member Rogers Byamukama honored the team’s monumental achievement by awarding each member with a generous sum of 1000 USD. This gesture of appreciation and recognition highlighted the nation’s pride in their young athletes.

Uganda’s victory in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship stands as a testament to their exceptional teamwork, unwavering spirit, and remarkable talent. The players’ prowess on the field, coupled with their resilience under pressure, captivated audiences and secured their place in the annals of Ugandan football history.

As celebrations reverberate across the nation, Uganda proudly embraces these young champions, celebrating their hard-earned victory that brought glory to the country.

The stage is set for an electrifying clash as the Uganda U18 national team gears up to face hosts Kenya in the final of the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place at 2:30pm tomorrow Friday 8th December 2023 at the Jomo Kenyatta Mambo Leo Stadium in Kisumu.

Uganda, after a challenging start in the group stages with a conjuring 1-0 loss to Tanzania, showcased their resilience by securing convincing victories against Zanzibar and South Sudan in the group stage thus leading group B with 6 points. Their remarkable journey continued with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Rwanda in the semifinals, earning them a well-deserved spot in the championship finale.

On the opposing side, Kenya has been a dominant force throughout the tournament, displaying exceptional prowess in the group stage with an unbeaten record. Their semifinal clash against Tanzania was a testament to their skill and determination, culminating in a thrilling victory via a penalty shootout.

The clash between these two talented teams promises to be an intense battle, with both sides eager to claim the coveted CECAFA U18 Boys Championship title. The match is anticipated to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and unwavering determination as these young athletes leave everything on the field in pursuit of victory.

Ahead of this monumental match, head coach Morley Byekwaso shared insights into the team’s preparation, strategies, and the significance of this intricate encounter against Kenya.

“We need to concentrate more because we are meeting the hosts who have alot of supporters. My boys will maintain the discipline and focus to see that we achieve what we want.”

Expected is a thrilling display of football prowess as Uganda and Kenya go head-to-head in what is poised to be an enthralling finale.

“Tomorrow’s game holds alot of meaning for us, it’s the final match. We promise to put up the best of our ability to overcome the tight battle.” Commented the team captain Anguti Amagu Louis.

With both teams eager to etch their names in history as Winners of this maiden tournament, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown at the Jomo Kenyatta Mambo Leo Stadium.

In a thrilling display of today morning, Uganda U18 Boys national team clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Rwanda in the semifinals of the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship. The decisive goal was netted by Mayanja Abubaker in the early minutes of the final half, propelling Uganda into the much-anticipated final against hosts, Kenya scheduled for Friday afternoon.

The match unfolded with high intensity, showcasing the fierce competition between the two sides. Despite Uganda’s dominance on the field, particularly in the first half, the team faced a challenge in converting numerous opportunities into goals. Nevertheless, their unwavering perseverance paid off when Mayanja Abubaker capitalized on a crucial chance, securing the lead that ultimately propelled Uganda into the championship final.

“We face a team that was really good and physical, but we planned well and eventually became victorious.” Morley Byekwaso during postmatch interview.

The encounter was marked by relentless efforts from both teams, with Uganda displaying resilience and tactical superiority throughout the game. Uganda’s ability to maintain composure under pressure and capitalize on key moments proved pivotal in securing their berth in the final clash.

With their eyes set on the championship title, Uganda now gears up for the upcoming final, poised to bring their A-game to the field once again.

“I can’t speak much about the final because we are still full of the previous match. We need to go back and lay strategy to address the most dangerous opponents.” Morley commented about his expectations ahead of the final game. The journey to the final has been marked by remarkable performances and unwavering dedication from the Ugandan squad despite losing the tourney opener against Tanzania, setting the stage for a captivating finale in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship.

The Uganda U18 national team showcased their prowess in a gripping encounter against South Sudan today afternoon, securing a well-deserved 2-0 victory in last group stage match. The thrilling battle saw Uganda clinch a spot in the semifinals of the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship.

The game’s narrative unfolded dramatically, with Richard Okello etching his name into the score sheet in the 63rd minute. Okello’s precise strike came after a remarkable cutback from Ssonko Ssembatya Hafidhu, setting the stadium alight with jubilation from the Ugandan contingent.

The momentum continued to build for Uganda as Kisiriko Denis capitalized on an opportunity in the 84th minute. Denis expertly converted Mukisa Simon’s well-delivered free-kick, securing Uganda’s victory and cementing their dominance in the encounter.

Head coach Morley Byekwaso was impressed by the players’ adaptability and aggression;

“It wasn’t an easy game, we started with pressure and created a lot of chances in the first half but didn’t take them away. We told them to insist on doing that and eventually, we got what we wanted.”

The journey to this significant triumph was no easy feat. Leading Group B with an impressive 6 points from 3 games, Uganda showcased not just their talent but also their resilience and tactical prowess having come into today’s game sitting at the bottom of the table. This win underlines the team’s commitment and ability to perform under pressure on the continental stage.

Looking ahead, Uganda now sets its sights on a pivotal semifinal clash against Rwanda. Scheduled for Tuesday, 5th December 2023, at the Jomo Kenyatta Mambo Leo Stadium, this encounter promises to be a riveting spectacle. As the anticipation mounts, fans eagerly await the showdown between these two formidable teams, both hungry for a spot in the coveted CECAFA U18 Boys Championship finals.

“We shall play our way, possess as we approach into the final third and score and when we lose the ball, defend as a unit.” Morley commented on his readiness for the semifinals.

Uganda’s journey in this championship continues to captivate audiences, highlighting the depth of talent within the squad. With their eyes fixed on the championship trophy, the team aims to build on this impressive performance, inspiring hope and pride among supporters back home.

Lineups

Starting 11

19. Magada Abdu (GK), 22. Karungi Abusaid, 21. Mpasa Swabir, 3. Mukisa Simon, 5. Anguti Amagu Louis (C), 6. Kisolo John Innocent, 11. Okello Richard, 20. Mutebi Hakim, 9. Mayanja Abubaker, 10. Mutyaba Travis, 17. Yiga Alex

Substitution

1. Etuta Bieven Siraje, 13. Wandera Hakim, 14. Ssonko Ssembatya Hafidhu, 23. Batiibwe Charlse Okello, 4. Katongole Frank, 16. Kisiriko Denis, 8. Ssekajugo Elvis, 2. Namaisi Stephen, 15. Kyeyune Abasi

In a gripping turn of events at the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship, the Uganda U18 national team finds itself on the precipice of advancement as they gear up to face off against South Sudan in the final group stage fixture. With all four teams in Group B locked at 3 points apiece but Uganda sitting on bottom of Group B table, the stakes are imperative in this upcoming showdown. Both the Uganda and South Sudan national teams have secured hard-fought victories, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter in their upcoming clash.

The Ugandan squad, led by head coach Morley Byekwaso, enters this match knowing that only a victory will secure their spot in the semifinals. With both teams triumphing in their previous matches with identical 2-1 scorelines, the anticipation surrounding this fixture has escalated to new heights. The exhilarating prospect of two victorious sides going head-to-head in a winner-takes-all scenario has captured the imagination of football enthusiasts across the tournament.

Uganda’s impressive performance in their last game demonstrated their resilience, strength, determination and tactical prowess by securing a crucial win of their own. As these talented young players prepare to face off, both teams are poised for an intense battle on the field.

The upcoming fixture not only holds the promise of thrilling football action but also carries immense significance for both sides. Uganda, aiming to maintain their regional momentum by securing a spot in the semifinals, will look to build upon their recent success.

With a place in the semifinals hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn’t be higher for these young athletes. As they step onto the field, the spotlight will be on their skills, teamwork, and ability to seize the moment in this crucial showdown plus the exceptional tactical prowess by the technical team. Uganda’s tactician Morley Byekwaso, sharpening his team’s skills and strategies, recognizes the significance of this match;

“This won’t be an easy game as all the four teams are contesting for the two available slots.  We need to give in our best to see that we qualify” anticipated Morley Byekwaso during the prematch interview.

The clash against South Sudan promises to be a riveting encounter, with both sides eager to claim the coveted ticket to the next stage of the championship. The tension is palpable as these talented U18 boys prepare to leave it all on the field in pursuit of their semifinal aspirations.

“South Sudan is a very strong side thus we need to be more creative and have alot of off-the-ball movements to neutralize their physicality” Morley emphasized.

The players’ cohesion, skillful play and strategic maneuvers will be put to the ultimate test against the South Sudan side also vying for progression in the tournament:

“We are currently at the bottom of the group table but this won’t affect us in a way, our target is put in our best and win the match” said Ugandan forward Yiga Alex.

The decisive clash will take place tomorrow Saturday 2nd December 2023 at Jomo Kenyatta Mambo Leo Stadium in Kisumu, kickoff at 2:00pm.

Another group B fixture will see Tanzania take on Zanzibar, same time at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega.

Uganda will be aiming to secure qualification to the knockout stages of the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship when they play last group stage match against South Sudan on Saturday afternoon.

Team currently sits at bottom of Group B having taken three points from their two fixtures so far but are levels with the other three opponents, only distanced with more cautions.

In a tricky group as it is, a must win would be an essential asset to give Uganda a guaranteed top-two finish in the group regardless results for the other game in same group.

If Morley Byekwaso’s side claim victory and the other fixture in the same group ends in a draw on the same afternoon, Uganda will be confirmed as group winners.

Top two teams in each Group progress directly to the semifinal.

Fixtures: Saturday 2nd December 2023.

Uganda vs South Sudan, 2pm at Jomo Kenyatta Mambo Leo Stadium-Kisumu.

Tanzania vs Zanzibar, 2pm, Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega.

The Uganda U18 national team showcased their resilience and skill, clinching a magnificent victory against Zanzibar U18 with a 2-1 scoreline this afternoon in a thrilling encounter. The match, which unfolded with high stakes, displayed Uganda’s unwavering determination and strategic prowess on the field.

The game began with a dynamic display from both sides, demonstrating their offensive and defensive capabilities. Uganda, coming off a narrow defeat in their first match against Tanzania, entered this encounter with a hunger for redemption. The breakthrough moment for Uganda came through the exceptional performance of Travis Mutyaba, whose clinical finish ignited the team’s momentum, securing the first goal after 17 minutes of play. The atmosphere was electrifying as Uganda took the lead before Zanzibar levelled the score a few minutes to the end of the first half through Moh’d Ali Moh’d.

The jubilation resurrected when an own goal was scored from a brilliant cross by Abubaker Mayanja, further strengthening Uganda’s position in the game. The team displayed remarkable coordination and teamwork throughout, capitalizing on strategic opportunities to secure their advantage.

While Zanzibar U18 fought valiantly, managing to find the back of the net once, Uganda’s solid defence held firm, safeguarding the lead until the final whistle.

“I thank my players for the efforts put in today’s game, it was a tag of war and we really needed to win it.” Commented Head Coach Morley Byekwaso in the post-match press interview.

This victory serves as a testament to the Uganda U18 national team’s resilience and adaptability on the field and securing the maximum points puts all Group B teams at level with three points each. Their ability to bounce back from an earlier setback against Tanzania demonstrates determination and commitment to success in the tournament.

With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, the team now gears up for their crucial upcoming match against South Sudan. The outcome of this game will determine their fate in the tournament, and the Uganda U18 national team is poised to put forth another stellar performance, aiming to secure their spot in the next stage.

“There are a lot of things we still need to rectify so that our progression gets smooth,” continued Morley about the preparations for the next game.

Uganda will play the last group stage game on Saturday, 2^nd November 2023, against South Sudan at Kisumu Stadium.

Uganda U18 Line up

Starting XI

Etuta Bieven Siraje 1, Namaisi Stephen 2, Mpasa Swabir 21, Mukisa Simon 3, Anguti Amagu Louis 5 ©, Kisolo Innocent 6, Mutebi Hakim 20, Mutyaba Travis 9, Mayanja Abubaker 9, Kyeyune Abasi 15, Yiga Alex 17

Substitutes

Magada Abdu 19, Wandera Hakim 13, Kaye Ronald 7, Batiibwe Okello Charles 23, Katongole Frank 4, Kisiriko Denis 16, Ssekajugo Vianne 8, Karungi Abusaid 22, Okello Richard 11

Uganda U18 looks to revive their campaign and make their mark in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship after a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Tanzania U18 in the opening group stage fixture. Uganda’s young football talents are bracing themselves for a redemption clash against Zanzibar tomorrow.`

The first match saw the Ugandan side exhibit moments of promising play but ultimately fell short of securing a favourable result. Head Coach Morley Byekwaso acknowledged the need for adjustments and improvements following the loss.

Zanzibar plays similarly as Tanzania, they have a compact backline. We need to play our way, take the game to their half and score goals.

Morley Byekwaso, U18 Head Coach

He acknowledged tactical changes required by his side to overcome opponents;

We hope to have some changes in the lineup; Travis Mutyaba and Namaisi Stephen who came from the bench in the first game will be on the starting 11.

Morley Byekwaso, U18 Head Coach

One of the main talking points ahead of this fixture revolves around the team’s resilience and adaptability noted in the second half of the previous encounter when pressure was inserted towards the opponents though missing on conversion of a number of chances. Travis Mutyaba a product of the FUFA Juniors League who also plays the senior national team Uganda Cranes promises a tough fight for victory.

With my experience from the senior team, I will do a lot tomorrow with my teammates to secure results.

Travis Mutyaba, Player

With two days rest and a chance to regroup, the Ugandan squad has been seen intensifying their training sessions, focusing on both technical aspects and mental preparedness aiming to rectify the areas that led to the previous defeat and harness their strengths effectively against the Zanzibar.

Zanzibar, on the other hand, enters the game on the back of a 1-0 win over South Sudan in their opening fixture. They bring their own set of skills and strategies to the field, making this encounter a tough battle of determination and skill.

The match promises an exciting display of talent, strategy, and determination as Uganda U18 faces off against Zanzibar in what is expected to be a fiercely contested battle tomorrow 29th November 2023, at 2:00 pm at Kakamega Stadium.

As the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship unfolds, an exciting encounter awaits as Uganda prepares to lock horns with Tanzania. Despite having crossed paths in different age categories, this tournament marks the first time these two sides meet in the U18 category, promising an intriguing battle on the field.

While previous encounters in different age divisions have set the stage for intense rivalries, this matchup in the U18 category carries its own aura of novelty and unpredictability. Both Uganda and Tanzania have showcased their football prowess in such regional tournaments, fostering a competitive environment that adds to the allure of this impending clash.

The Ugandan U18 squad, under the guidance of their astute coaching staff led by Morley Byekwaso, has diligently honed their skills and tactics in preparation for this crucial fixture with last training held today afternoon at Kakamega High School. The team’s strategic approach and focus on player development have set the stage for an intense display of talent and determination on matchday.

My boys are ready to compete, we just need to tell them how to play at this level and relax them off pressure. With this they understand what to do to get positive results.

Morley Byekwaso, Head Coach

As with any high-stakes encounter, challenges loom on the horizon. Both sides will face the test of nerves and composure, striving to convert opportunities while shoring up their defences against the opposition’s attacking threats.

The only problem might be not knowing the opponents well since we’ve not interfaced in this age category-U18, but we have for several times met in other categories. We shall insist on playing the way we’ve been training.

Morley Byekwaso, Head Coach

As the countdown to this much-anticipated encounter continues, the Uganda vs. Tanzania showdown in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship stands poised to captivate audiences and offer a glimpse into the future of CECAFA region football talent. The stage is set for an enthralling battle where skill, strategy, and raw passion collide in a bid for victory.

The match will be played tomorrow Sunday 26^th November 2023 at Bhukungu Stadium in Kakamega, Kenya at 3:00pm and will be aired live on KBC TV and YouTube.

The U18 National Team continues to demonstrate their readiness for the upcoming CECAFA U18 Boys Championship, scheduled to take place from November 25th to December 8th, 2023, in Kenya.

Today morning the team showcased their prowess in a thrilling friendly match against BUL FC, securing a 2-1 victory in an astounding display of skill and teamwork. The entire squad exhibited extraordinary determination, but it was Katongole Frank who summed the day, scoring both goals.

The victory against BUL FC being a progressive result to the prior 2 test games against Gaddafi FC which ended in a 3-1 defeat and 2 all draw.

Under the astute leadership of head coach Morley Byekwaso, the team has been diligently preparing for the tournament, emphasizing both physical and mental conditioning.

“The final squad is made up of 23 talented and hardworking players who will represent the country very well.” Commented Byekwaso

“We need to work extra hard to make it through our group (Group of Death) where there are East Africa’s superpowers Zanzibar who are the current champions of the U15 Boys Championship, Tanzania and South Sudan.”

The final squad of 23 players including 3 goalkeepers, 7 defenders, 8 midfielders and 5 forwards has been selected after rigorous training sessions and evaluation of skills, ensuring a balanced and formidable team ready to take on the challenge.

Players list

	Name	Position	Club
1	Magada Abdu	Goalkeeper	Gaddafi FC
2	Etuta Bieven Siraje	Goalkeeper	Vipers SC JT
3	Nsubuga Chris Ronald	Goalkeeper	Amus FC
4	Ssonko Ssembatya Hafidhu	Defender	Prosper SA
5	Kaye Ronald	Defender	NEC FC
6	Wandera Hakim	Defender	Prosper SA
7	Abalirya Peter	Defender	Kibuli SS
8	Anguti Amagu Louis	Defender	Lugazi FC
9	Mukisa Simon	Defender	SC Villa
10	Namaisi Stephen	Defender	Kataka FC
11	Katongole Frank	Midfielder	Vipers SC
12	Kisolo John Innocent	Midfielder	St. Henry’s College Kitovu
13	Batiibwe Charlse Okello	Midfielder	SC Villa
14	Karungi Abusaid	Midfielder	Gaddafi FC
15	Mutyaba Travis	Midfielder	Dynamo Tbilisi Georgia
16	Mutebi Hakim	Midfielder	SC Villa
17	Mpasa Swabir	Midfielder	BUL FC JT
18	Ssekajugo Elvis	Midfielder	Royal Giants High School
19	Kyeyune Abasi	Forward	SC Villa
20	Okello Richard	Forward	BUL FC JT
21	Yiga Alex	Forward	KCCA FC
22	Mayanja Abubaker	Forward	KCCA FC
23	Kisiriko Dennis	Forward	URA FC

The CECAFA U18 Boys Championship promises to be a platform where the nation’s young football talents will shine. The coaching staff is confident in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level and bring glory to the nation.

Officials

	Name	Title
1	Mpiima Samuel	Leader Of Delegation
2	Byekwaso Morley Ochama Age	Head Coach
3	Kasule Noah	Fitness Coach
4	Kiggundu Stephen Billy	Goalkeeping Coach
5	Mutyaba Bashir	Team Manager
6	Gumisiriza Micheal	Team Doctor
7	Kebba Rashid	Team Doctor
8	Bumpenje Frank	Kits Manager
9	Kivumbi Joel Cornelious	Media Officer
10	Kabali Ahmed	Bus Driver

The team will setoff tomorrow morning and continues preparations while in Kenya.

Uganda is in group B alongside Tanzania, South Sudan and Zanzibar and will play group matches from Kakamega Stadium, starting with Tanzania on Sunday 26^th November 2023 at 3:00pm.

The CECAFA U15 Boys championship 2023 came to an end on Thursday 16th November 2023 at the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru as Tanzania secured the third place and Zanzibar took home the trophy.

Uganda finished in second position.

Uganda and Zanzibar played to a one all draw in a match that was decided by spot kicks.

Ecock Bagenda, Ibra Ssebagala and Richard Okello were on target for the hosts while Ronald Kigoye and Ratib Gulanyago missed.

Zanzibar scored four out of five penalties through Saleh Mbarouk, Adam Shaaban, Hassan Iddi and Lukman Omar. They missed only one penalty through Fahad Hassan.

In the third place playoff, a lone goal from Kaniki Seleman before the first half came to an end saw Tanzania overcome South Sudan in the highly contested match.

Awards

Fairplay – Ethiopia U15

Best Goalkeeper – Mahir Amour (ZAN)

Top Scorer – Lazarus Peter George Laku (SSD)

Best Player – Owen Mukisa (UGA)

Pictorial

Third place playoff: Tanzania U15 1-0 South Sudan U15

Tanzania U15 Starting XI – Mshenga Bakari (GK), Mohammed Omar, Kassim Juma, Hassan Bandya, Pius John, Feisal Juma, Hamisi Hamisi, Athumani Salumu, Peter Arbogasti, Mohammed Hassan, Juma Mashaka

Substitutes – Abrahman Nassoro, Mohammed Shilla, Laurence Agostino, Dominic Mgeluwa, Jaffari Mwanyemba, Mark Khamsini, Juma Abushiri, Kaniki Seleman, Jackson Mlokosi

Head Coach – Maalim Swalehe Mohamed

South Sudan U15 Starting XI – Daniel Lombe (GK), Jordan Majak, Samuel Eyi, Felix Marial, Ajo Lomoro, Lazarus Peter George Laku, Louis Domiano, Anur Loboro, Victor Elizaya, Emmauel Seberino, Rwede Ngoan

Substitutes – Ismail Mansuk, Emmauel Eyi, Daniel Garang, David Amule, Emmauel Kennedy, Sebit Hoth, Marko Musa, David Biel, Said Kwongo

Head Coach – Nasir Yousif Hassen Bakit

Final: Uganda U15 1(3)-1(4) Zanzibar U15

Uganda U15 Starting XI – Edrisa Waibi (GK), Samuel Mubiru, Ratib Gulanyago, Abubakali Walusimbi, Simon Wanyama, Richard Okello, Pius Oyirwoth, Owen Mukisa, Ibra Ssebagala, Ronald Kigoye, Enock Bagenda

Substitutes – Ashraf Lukyamuzi, Moses Kalule, Tom Ssesaazi, Musa Akbar, Frank Ssekanjako, Arafat Nkoola, Disan Mwebe, Thomas Ogema, Abdulshakur Babi

Head Coach – Hamza Lutalo

Zanzibar U15 Starting XI – Mahir Amour, Ashraf Othman, Mwinyi Hassan, Abdulnasir Marakani, Lukman Omar, Mohamed Nassor, Saleh Mbarouk, Abdulhafidh Salmin, Mohamed Mohamed, Hussein Mbegu, Hassan Iddi

Substitutes – Nassir Hassan, Mohamed Shaaban, Abdulbasit Abdulrahman, Adam Shaaban, Abdallah Mohd, Khamis Mbarouk, Fahad Khamis, Fahad Hassan, Fasbir Ramadhan

Head Coach – Mohamed Mrishona Mohamed

In what promises to be a thrilling culmination to an electrifying tournament, the Uganda U15 boys’ national team is set to square off against the Zanzibar U15 national team in the much-anticipated final of the CECAFA U15 Boys Championship on Thursday, 16th November 2023, at 3:30 pm at the FUFA Technical Center-Njeru.

Both teams have displayed remarkable prowess, marching through the group stages without a single loss or concession of a goal. Three games each, three victories, and airtight defenses have solidified their journey to the summit clash, showcasing not just skill but also an unwavering determination to claim the coveted championship.

Uganda’s Path to the Final

Led by a cohesive unit of talented youngsters, the Uganda U15 team has exhibited a blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance. The Uganda Rhinos kickstarted their voyage with a 15-0 win against Djibouti, beat South Sudan 3-0 and Ethiopia 4-0 to storm the semifinal where they conceded the first goal but won against Tanzania 2-1 in a thrilling encounter.

Zanzibar’s Rise to the Final

Meanwhile, Zanzibar’s journey has been equally commendable. The U15 squad from the islands has showcased resilience and tenacity, navigating through their group matches with remarkable ease. Their defensive strength, coupled with quick counter-attacks, has been a recipe for success. Zanzibar beat Rwanda 3-0, Somalia 4-0, and neighbors Tanzania 2-0 in the group stages, drew 1-1 with stubborn South Sudan in the semifinal, whom they later eliminated 4-2 in spot kicks.

The Final Showdown

As these two undefeated titans clash in the final, anticipation runs high for a thrilling encounter as solid defense meets sharp strikers. Uganda has the top scorer contender Enock Bagenda lying only 2 goals behind South Sudan’s Lazarus Peter George Laku, who currently boasts at the top with 8 goals.

“We will change our tactics used in the semifinal to fit the new opponent – Zanzibar because they have a different playing style,” commented Hamza Lutalo- U15 National Team Head coach during the prematch press conference.

“They have a solid defense but we also have a sharp striking line to penetrate them as we fight to defend our title.”

The clash promises not only a battle for the trophy but also a showcase of raw talent, skill, and the indomitable spirit of young footballers from East Africa. Will Uganda’s attacking prowess break through Zanzibar’s solid defense, or will Zanzibar’s resilience thwart Uganda’s ambitions?

The final promises to be a spectacle, where every pass, tackle, and shot will reverberate the aspirations of these young talents. The CECAFA U15 Boys Championship final is dignified to be an exhibition of pure footballing artistry, where the outcome will be decided by moments of brilliance, resilience under pressure, and the undying passion for the beautiful game.