Playing in the finals of the tournament for the first time, the Uganda national U-20 team alias "The Hippos" started on brilliant note with a comprehensive 2:0 win against Mozambique.
The match played on Monday 15th February,2021 at the Stade Olympique, Nouakchott City in Mauritania saw the Hippos win with goals coming from striker Derrick Kakooza and second half substitute Steven Sserwadda.
In the match, enterprising midfielder Yiga Najib got injured and was moved out on the stretcher and thus replaced by Ivan Eyan. An update on his injury is yet to be communicated.
Isma Mugulusi was named man of the match despite a partial appearance before he was rested for Joseph Kizza Bukenya.
Uganda will be back in action against Cameroon (1-0 conquerors of Mauritania) on Wednesday 17th February,2020 before sealing group fixtures on 20th February against host nation Mauritania.
Starting XI:
Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Azizi Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Kenneth Semakula, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Najib Yiga(Joseph Kizza Bukenya),Isma Mugulusi(Ivan Eyamu), Richard Basangwa, Ivan Bogere(Steven Sserwadda), Derrick Kakooza
