The Uganda Hippos (U20) Team will have their first-ever engagement in the AFCON U20 tournament on Monday 15th February 2021 against Mozambique at the Stade Olympique in Nouakchott in Mauritania.
This will be the first time ever that the two countries will be playing at the tournament.
During the pre-match Press Conference, Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso stated that the players have adapted to the weather and ready for Mozambique.
“We had some problems with the weather here. The wind was too heavy for my players but they have managed to adapt to it. We have made enough preparations to get the best from the match. We respect Mozambique but we are ready and we want to come out victorious,” said Coach Byekwaso.
Uganda Hippos played two buildup matches against Tanzania but won one 1-0 and lost the other 5-3.
This will be the first time Uganda U20 to play a Mozambican team at this U20 level.
The Hippos are the Champions of CECAFA and will play Cameroon in the second game on Wednesday 17th February before the last group game against the hosts Mauritania on 20th February 2021.
On the road to booking a ticket to the final tournament, Uganda finished top of Group B after demolishing Burundi 6-1 and drawing 0-0 with South Sudan. In the semi-finals, they were 3-1 winners over Kenya before trouncing Tanzania 4-1 in the final.
The Group A second match will kickoff at 4 pm.
Players in Mauritania
Goalkeepers:Komakech Jack (18) (Ascent SA), Oyo Delton (Busoga United FC), Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala (SC Villa).
Defenders:Kizito Mugweri Gavin (SC Villa), Semakula Kenneth (Busoga United FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC) Kafumbe Joseph (KCCA FC), Begisa James Penz (UPDF FC), Baligeya Simon (Kibuli SS), Abdul Azizi Kayondo (Vipers SC)
Midfielders: Mugulusi Isma (Busoga United FC), Yiga Najib (Vipers SC), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC) Sserwadda Steven (KCCA FC), Eyamu Ivan (Mbarara City FC), Kawooya Andrew (KCCA FC), Asaba Ivan (Vipers SC), Ssekajja Davis (Bright Stars FC), Wabyoona Faisal (Big Talent SA).
Forwards: Bogere Ivan (Proline FC), Ssenyonjo Samuel (KCCA FC), Kakooza Derrick (Police FC), Basangwa Richard (Vipers SC), Bukenya Joseph Kizza (KCCA FC), Ssali Alpha Thierry (Proline FC).
