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Uganda Cubs held by Tanzania in opener

Uganda Cubs striker James Bogere wins the ball during the game. PHOTO/COURTESY 

What you need to know:

Uganda and Tanzania games in all categories have become tightly contested affairs as other age groups get acquainted with the regional archrivalry, and this wasn’t any different.

Uganda Cubs must win their match against Kenya in their second and final group game of the Cecafa qualifier of the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after sharing spoils with Tanzania in the opening game on Sunday at Nakivubo.

Uganda and Tanzania games in all categories have become tightly contested affairs as other age groups get acquainted with the regional archrivalry, and this wasn’t any different.

The Tanzanians drew the first blood in the first half through Ally Saleh’s 19th minute goal but Uganda returned a rejuvenated side after the break.

Masaka Sunshine midfielder Isima Magala Mulala equalized for the Cubs at the hour mark and should have grabbed the winner minutes later but Tanzania held on to the draw.

“This is not the result we expected but games against Tanzania are always tight and decided by small margins,” Brian Ssenyondo, the Uganda Cubs head coach said after the match.

In summary, he analysed the two halves: “They dictated play in the first half because they had a better character and attitude. We came back and improved in the second half and controlled the tempo but we missed some chances.”

The Tanzanians will return to action on Wednesday to face Kenya before Uganda plays the same opponent on Saturday.

In the other match played South Sudan thrashed Somalia 3-0 to take control of Group B. South Sudan will face Sudan in their last group game tomorrow.

The top two teams from the groups will advance to the semifinal where the winners will qualify for the Afcon finals to be held next year in Ivory Coast. The Afcon will also double as the 2025 U-17 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations – Cecafa qualifier

Match day one results

Uganda 1-1 Tanzania

Somalia 0-3 South Sudan

Wednesday fixtures - Nakivubo

Tanzania vs. Kenya, 1pm

South Sudan vs. Sudan, 4pm