Uganda Hippos Keep CECAFA Title En Route to AFCON Qualifying

The Uganda U20 Men’s National Football Team won the CECAFA Zoneal Qualifying Tournament for the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Hippos successfully defended their regional championship after defeating South Sudan in the Al Hilal Stadium final on Friday.

Uganda had to overcome a one-goal deficit to defeat South Sudan in a tightly contested match.

It should be noted that both teams had already qualified for the 2019 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Egypt, but were competing for the championship.

Felix Abishai, who scored from close range in the 15th minute, gave South Sudan the lead.

Issa Bugembe’s fierce drive from outside the penalty area struck the back of the net seven minutes later to restore parity for Uganda.

The winning goal was scored by Wakiso Giants midfielder Titus Ssematimba in the second half.

Uganda successfully defends the CECAFA championship it won in Tanzania in 2020 with a victory.

Last year, Uganda Hippos defied the odds to reach the U20 AFCON final before losing 2-0 to Ghana, the eventual champions.

Ugandans Abdu Magada and Titus Ssematimba were chosen the best goalie and Most Valuable Player, respectively.