The Uganda U17 Boys National Team secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Kenya in the 2024 U-17 AFCON CECAFA zonal Qualifiers. Striker Bogere James scored a hat trick, leading Uganda’s strong performance. Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo praised the team’s discipline and focus, anticipating a challenging semifinal against Somalia.
In a commanding display, the Uganda U17 Boys National Team triumphed over Kenya with a resounding 5-0 victory at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2024 U-17 AFCON CECAFA zonal Qualifiers. Striker Bogere James starred for Uganda, netting a hat trick with goals in the 18th, 42nd, and 51st minutes, affirming his position as the tournament’s leading scorer. Additional goals by Magala Isima Mulala and Wanyama Simon rounded off the Cubs’ emphatic win against their East African rivals.
Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, commending their discipline and strategic execution. He stated, “The boys were fantastic today—disciplined, focused, and clinical.” Ssenyondo remarked on Kenya’s physical toughness yet emphasized his team’s ability to maintain composure and adhere to their game plan. This dominant performance followed a strong start, as Uganda established control early in the match, taking the lead through a penalty awarded for a foul in the box against Bogere.
In the match’s early moments, Magala Isima Mulala doubled the lead with a well-placed shot just before halftime, followed by Bogere’s striking second goal taking advantage of a Kenyan defensive error. The Cubs exhibited continued intensity into the second half, with Bogere culminating his hat trick shortly after the break. Kenya found it difficult to mount a response as Uganda’s defense remained steadfast and resolute.
The match concluded with Wanyama Simon scoring in the 81st minute, further sealing the victory. In anticipation of their semifinal match against reigning champions Somalia on December 24, 2023, Ssenyondo recognized the formidable challenge that lies ahead and the need for thorough preparation, acknowledging Somalia’s prior victory against Uganda in the previous semifinal. He stated, “We’ll use these two rest days to prepare and ensure we’re ready to give our best.”
The Uganda U17 national team has showcased remarkable skill and teamwork in the ongoing CECAFA zonal qualifiers for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Their victory over Kenya not only highlights their developmental program’s promising talent but also sets the stage for the significant challenge they face in the upcoming semifinals against Somalia, a team with a strong pedigree in youth football. The context of their previous encounters adds further intensity to this anticipated match-up, emphasizing the competitive nature of regional tournaments in East Africa.
In summary, the Uganda U17 Boys National Team delivered an impressive performance in their 5-0 victory over Kenya, showcasing both individual talent and team cohesion. With Bogere James as a standout player, the team remains focused on their upcoming semifinal against Somalia, fully aware of the challenges that await them. Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo’s insights emphasize the blend of respect and preparation necessary to succeed against a formidable opponent.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
