Uganda Secures 3-0 Victory Over Ethiopia in U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers

Uganda’s U-20 National Football Team, The Hippos, managed a 3-0 win in the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Cecafa Qualifiers against Ethiopia on Monday, October 7, 2024. Defending champions Uganda had a great display of football during this match of Group B, which was played at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Key Moments of the Match

The Hippos dominated from the outset, with Godfrey Sekibengo opening the scoreline in the 23rd minute. The midfielder, representing Uganda Revenue Authority Football Club, displayed brilliant control and technique to put his team ahead. As the first half progressed, Swabir Mpasa of Bul Football Club furthered Uganda’s lead by scoring just before halftime, putting the Hippos in a strong 2-0 position at the break.

Ethiopia’s struggles continued in the second half, when an unfortunate own goal by defender Biniyam Babulo sealed the match for Uganda. Substituted by Uganda in the second half, John Innocent Kisolo forced a heavy deflection off Babulo, ending the game 3-0 in favor of Uganda.

Player Performances

Uganda’s defensive strategy, led by Majub Toto and Steven Namaisi, ensured Ethiopia’s offense was nullified throughout the game. The Hippos’ midfield, driven by Godfrey Sekibengo, orchestrated the attack, ensuring constant pressure on Ethiopia’s defense.

For Ethiopia, the result was disappointing, but Biniyam Babulo stood out despite the unfortunate own goal, working tirelessly to hold the defense. Their midfield, however, struggled to maintain possession and failed to find opportunities to break down Uganda’s strong defensive line.

Ethiopia’s Challenge in Group B

The defeat to Uganda has piled hands on Ethiopia in the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Cecafa Qualifiers Group B action. Having been trailed in this group by Burundi and South Sudan, their path to the qualifications may be hung in the balance, hence it calls for quick regrouping.

Uganda’s U-20 Next Challenge: A Showdown with Burundi

Uganda’s U-20 national team, the Hippos, faces their next test in the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (Cecafa Qualifiers) on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, when they meet Burundi at the KMC Stadium. Coming into this crucial Group B match, Uganda will be full of confidence after a commanding 3-0 win over Ethiopia. 

Burundi opened their account with a hard-fought 1-0 win over South Sudan to leave them in a decent position in the group. The only goal of the match came as early as the 8th minute through Christophe Ndayikengurukiyey’s boot, and though the latter stages of the game were dominated by a strong pushing force from South Sudan, this saw Burundi hold on to claim a well-deserved three points and showed a lot of resilience and discipline at the back.

Tough Road Ahead for Ethiopia U-20 After Defeat Against Uganda

This was a testament to the ambitions of Uganda to retain their title, as Ethiopia go back to the drawing board ahead of their next outing with key defensive and midfield worries. All eyes will be on whether Uganda can keep this form going as reigning champions of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.