Football enthusiasts on Wednesday made it to Phillip Omondi Stadium in big numbers to witness Tonny Mawejje put final pieces to his glittering football career.
In what is a rare occasion for a Ugandan footballer to have a testimonial match, this went into the history books as the midfield general danced for the last time.
Mawejje had several players and celebrities lined up to his side.These included former Uganda Cranes captains Denis Onyango and Geoffrey Massa, Joseph Ochaya, Isaac Isinde, Steven Bengo, Dan Wagaluka, Brian Umony and Geoffrey Sserunkuma among others.
Musicians included Eddy Kenzo and Rickman Ricki who both played football in their early age.
Facing the current Uganda Cranes team that largely composed of U23 players, Mawejje’s team came from a goal down to win 2-1 on a chilly evening.
Hakim Kiwanuka had given Uganda Cranes the lead in the 25th minute thanks to a lay up from Richard Basangwa.
However, the lead was short lived for the youthful team with current Uganda Cranes skipper Emmanuel Okwi finding the equalizer at the half hour mark.
The winning goal came in the 59th minute through Muhammad Shaban who came off the bench at the start of the second goal.
Mawejje was given a standing ovation in the 6th minute with fans, players from either side clapping in honour of the great player.
He featured for 83 minutes before getting substituted amidst cheers from the fans.
Mawejje played for the national team between 2004-2018 making 84 appearances and scoring eight goals.
He will have another testimonial match played in his home area, Masaka on Friday at Masaka Recreation Centre against the Uganda Cranes.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI
Dennis Otim (GK), James Begisa, Gavin Kizito (C) Derrick Ndahiro, Ibrahim Juma, Kenneth Ssemakula, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Isma Mugulusi , Hakim Kiwanuka, Rogers Mato, Richard Basangwa
Mawejje Starting XI
Denis Onyango (GK), Isaac Isinde, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa, Joseph Ochaya, Dennis Iguma, Eddy Kenzo,Tonny Mawejje (C), Paul Mucureezi, Yunus Sentamu, Emmanuel Okwi
