The U20 Africa Cup of Nations began on Sunday in Ismailia, Egypt, and Uganda’s wish was granted on Monday after a 2-1 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR). This is what every competing team hopes for at the start of every competition.
It’s important to advance past the first match and into the tournament’s later rounds as well. The first task was completed thanks to two goals scored in the second half by captain Isma Mugulusi and John Paul Dembe.
Mugulusi scored the second goal of the competition to give the Hippos the lead following a scoreless first half. Later, Dembe’s goal in the 74th minute doubled Uganda’s advantage, giving the Hippos a comfortable lead. However, CAR was able to get a goal back through Boris Gbenou in the 90+5th minute.
After a stellar performance that helped the Hippos move to the top of Group B with three points, Rogers Mugisha was named Man of the Match.
“My lads played a good game and the first game is not always easy at big tournaments like this. It’s a big stage for the players and we won against a good team,” Mayanja said at his post-match press conference.
“Like I said this is a big stage and for most of these boys in the team this is their first time playing at this stage. We were a bit shaky in the first half and we were collected in the second half.”
After the second match of the group, which pitted South Sudan against Congo Brazzaville, Uganda still held the top spot.
Congo joined Uganda to collect their first victory of the campaign following a 2-1 win against South Sunda at Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia.
Deo Bassinga gave Congo the league in the 45th minute to send his team to the break with a narrow league before Prience Llendo made it 2-0 in the 63rd minute.
Debutants, South Sudan got the consolation 83 minutes on the clock to reduce the goals deficit.
Even though South Sudan lost, their goal was significant because it was their first-ever goal in the CAF youth tournament.
On Thursday, Group B will resume play with a match between the losers, CAR and South Sudan, followed by a match between the winners, Uganda and Congo.
