Uganda and Tanzania Share Points in U-17 AFCON Qualifier Opener

Uganda drew 1-1 with Tanzania in their opening match of the U-17 AFCON qualifiers. Tanzania scored first through Saleh Alley, but Uganda equalized with a goal from Isima Magala. Both teams now have one point in Group A, with South Sudan leading Group B. Upcoming matches are crucial for securing semifinal spots.

In the inaugural match of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers for the CECAFA Zone, Uganda hosted Tanzania, resulting in a 1-1 draw at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium in Kampala on Sunday. Tanzania began the match strongly, taking the lead in the 19th minute through Saleh Alley. However, Uganda rallied after halftime and equalized with a goal from Isima Magala in the 58th minute. Despite Uganda’s relentless attacks, they were unable to secure a victory, and a late chance for Magala went awry. This outcome places both teams with one point in Group A, with South Sudan leading Group B after defeating Somalia 3-0.

The U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers serve as a crucial platform for young football talents across the region, allowing them to compete for a spot in the prestigious tournament. This year’s qualifiers feature teams from the CECAFA region, where several national teams vie for a place in the U-17 AFCON set to take place in Cote d’Ivoire. Matches are highly competitive, as teams aim to secure their position in the semifinals, ultimately striving for the opportunity to represent their countries on a larger continental stage. The performance in these early matches will greatly influence the teams’ strategies moving forward, particularly for those like Uganda and Tanzania, who will be fighting for every point.

The 1-1 draw between Uganda and Tanzania in the U-17 AFCON qualifiers highlights the competitive spirit of the tournament and the potential growth of young players within the region. With both teams gaining a point, the focus now shifts to their upcoming matches, particularly Uganda’s critical encounter against Kenya. As teams continue to fight for qualification into the AFCON, the stakes remain high, and every match will be pivotal in determining who advances.

Original Source: www.independent.co.ug