Uganda bow out of 2021 CECAFA U-23 as Tanzania goes for semis

BAHIR DAR, Ethiopia

Uganda U-23 team (Kobs) got eliminated from the 2021 CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup tournament, ongoing in Ethiopia at the Bahir Dar city under rainny conditions.

The Kobs failed to win for the second consecutive time, playing to a 1-all draw with traditional arch rivals Tanzania during the two countries’ respective second games.

Uganda started on a false note, missing a penalty through Steven Dese Mukwala on the opening quarter hour mark.

Then the Tanzanians took the lead through Israel Bajana Sospeter’s well struck penalty in the 31st minute.

The lead lasted for only 9 minutes before Mukwala tapped home past goalkeeper Boniface Mnata Metacha as the two sides ended 1-goal apiece heading to the mandatory half way mark.

Uganda remained soul searching for the remaining 45 minutes to no avail.

With less than 20 minutes to play, the Kobs technical team called for a double change.

Julius Poloto and Bright Anukani were rested for Abdallah Salim and forward Ivan Bogere respectively to add fire power upfront.

Karim Watambala got cautioned in the 78th minute for unsporting conduct.

Tanzania remained solid as Uganda sought for the winner that never arrived.

Uganda ends the group stage campaign with two points and DR Congo on one point.

As Uganda plans for the classification games, Tanzania booked a berth to the semi-finals as the best country in group A with four points.

Tanzania face South Sudan and Kenya will play Burundi at the last four stage.

Team Line Ups:

Uganda XI: Charles Lukwago (G.K), Enock Walusimbi (Captain), Azizi Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Peter Magambo, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Bright Anukani (71’ Ivan Bogere), Karim Watambala, Julius Poloto (71’ Abdallah Salim), Najib Yiga, Steven Mukwala. Head coach: Morley Byekwaso

Tanzania XI: Boniface Mnata Metacha (G.K), Israel Patrick Mwenda (Captain), Nickson Clement Kibarage, Lusajo Elukaga Mwakenda, Israel Bajana Sospeter, Abraham Meshack Mwamita, Reliant Llusajo Mwakasagule, Kelvin Nashon Naftal, Hamza Mohammed Abdulrazak, Yusuph Valentine Mhilu, Lucas Kikoti. Head coach: Kim Poulsen