By: Kamusiime Barnabas
- Group A: Uganda Kobs 1-1 Tanzania U23
- Group C: South Sudan 2-0 Djibouti
Uganda’s U-23 team (Kobs) got eliminated from the 2021 CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup tournament ongoing in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
The Kobs failed to win for the second consecutive time, playing to a one-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 Raphael Brynson’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 one-goal apiece heading to the mandatory halfway 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 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 semifinals as the best country in Group A with four points.
Tanzania faces 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
Subs Not Used: Denis Otim (G.K), Saidi Keni (G.K), Sadam Masereka, Derrick Kakooza, Gavin Kizito, Samuel Ssenyonjo, Steven Sserwadda, George Kaddu, Hakim Kiwanuka
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