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, 2nd 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
