Uganda 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 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.

Right from onset, Uganda was dominant and created several chances even before taking the lead.

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’s cross from the left wing was well controlled by Kakooza to set up Sserwadda whose left footed effort rattled the upright before finding the back of the net.

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.

Immediately after Mugulusi was handed with his plaque, the team was treated to Ugandan music with B2C and Rema Namakula’s “Gutujja” playing in the background.

Isma Mugulusi poses with the player of the match plaque.
Uganda Hippos will return to action on Wednesday against Cameroon who won 1-0 against hosts Mauritania.