In their U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, Uganda and Tanzania drew 1-1. Tanzania led with a goal from Saleh Alley, but Uganda equalized with a goal by Isima Magala. Uganda’s coach emphasized the need for a win against Kenya in their next match to advance. South Sudan currently leads Group B after defeating Somalia.
In an exciting contest at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium in Kampala, Uganda and Tanzania played to a 1-1 draw during their Group A opener of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers for the CECAFA Zone on Sunday. Tanzania made a strong start, taking the lead in the 19th minute through Saleh Alley. Uganda, however, responded well after halftime, equalizing the score with a goal from Isima Magala in the 58th minute. Despite heightening their offensive efforts, Uganda could not secure a victory, with Magala missing a late chance that could have clinched the match for the hosts. Aggrey Morris Ambros, the Tanzanian coach, expressed satisfaction with the result against a competitive Ugandan team, while Uganda’s coach, Brian Ssenyondo, emphasized the necessity of winning their final group match against Kenya to advance to the semifinals. In the opening group tournament, South Sudan leads Group B after defeating Somalia 3-0, while both Uganda and Tanzania hold one point each in Group A.
The U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are crucial tournaments for young football talent in Africa, providing a platform for national teams to showcase their abilities and secure a spot in the prestigious continental championship. The Central East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) Zone is tasked with organizing these qualifiers. This tournament emphasizes the development of youth football in the region and serves as a precursor to the African championship set to occur in Cote d’Ivoire next year. The performance of teams in these qualifiers is essential not only for advancement in the tournament but also for nurturing young athletes’ growth in the sport.
The match between Uganda and Tanzania highlighted not only the competitive nature of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers but also the potential for growth and development within youth football in Africa. Despite the draw, both teams exhibited promising talent, setting the stage for an interesting continuation in the qualifiers. Uganda’s upcoming match against Kenya will be pivotal in determining their path toward securing a spot in the semifinals.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
