In a thrilling final held at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu on Friday afternoon, the Uganda U18 National Team made history by defeating Kenya 2-1 in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship. The match was played to an even higher level as the stadium erupted with emotion from a large number of Kenyan and Ugandan fans.
Kenya scored early in the second half to take the lead, but the Ugandan team showed unwavering resolve. The game went into extra time due to an incredible equalizer by Abasi Kyeyune just before the final whistle, setting up an exciting and suspenseful finish.
In a pivotal moment, Uganda’s winning goal in extra time was slotted in by Mutebi Hakim, who was acclaimed as the competition’s Most Valuable Player. This decisive moment of victory was the result of his outstanding performance throughout the championship.
In an engaging interview after the game, Uganda’s head coach Morley Byekwaso acknowledged the formidable opposition his team faced. He praised his team’s perseverance and acknowledged the game’s extreme difficulty while applauding their unwavering resolve.
In addition to the celebration, each member of the team received a hefty donation of $1,000 USD from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President, Rogers Byamukama, an EXCOM member, in recognition of the team’s incredible accomplishment. This expression of gratitude and acknowledgment emphasized how proud the country is of its young athletes.
Uganda’s triumph in the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship is evidence of their extraordinary talent, tenacity, and teamwork. The players’ on-field skill and their ability to persevere under duress enthralled spectators and cemented their place in Ugandan football history.
Uganda gladly welcomes these young champions, celebrating their well-deserved victory that brought honor to the nation, as cheers echo throughout the country.
