Uganda men’s U-20 national football team, Hippos made a brilliant start to the 2021 Total Africa U20 Cup of Nations, registering a win in the opening game against Mozambique on Monday.
Playing at the final tournament for the first time, the Uganda Hippos didn’t get any stage fright and dominated proceedings as they secured a comfortable 2-0 triumph at the Stade Olympique, Nouakchott City, Mauritania.
Striker Derrick Kakooza and second half substitute Steven Sserwadda scored a goal each to guide Uganda to victory.
Kakooza, Richard Basangwa and Ivan Bogere who led the attack came close to scoring in the first half.
Both Kakooza and Bogere forced the Mozambique goalkeeper to make fine saves while Basangwa had his effort go off target by a few inches.
The Boys returned recharged after the break and Kakooza broke the deadlock in the 56th minute.
The striker who plies his trade with Police FC struck home from the spot after a Mozambique defender had held the ball in the box.
Kakooza then setup Sserwadda after a well delivered cross from the left by Najib Yiga in the 85th minute.
Sserwadda had earlier on replaced Ivan Bogere in the 73rd minute.
Yiga was stretchered out moments later to pave way for Ivan Eyamu.
Isma Mugulusi who was named player of the match was also rested for Joseph Kizza Bukenya.
Uganda Hippos XI Vs Mozambique
Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Azizi Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Kenneth Semakula, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Najib Yiga(Joseph Kizza Bukenya),Isma Mugulusi(Ivan Eyamu), Richard Basangwa, Ivan Bogere(Steven Sserwadda), Derrick Kakooza
Substitutes
Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (SC Villa), Delton Oyo, Joseph Kafumbe (KCCA), James Penz Begisa (UPDF), Simon Baligeya, Ivan Eyamu, Andrew Kawooya, Ivan Asaba, Steven Sserwadda, Davis Ssekajja, Faisal Wabyoona, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Samuel Ssenyonjo
