Uganda Cubs launched their AFCON U17 campaign in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over DR Congo in Morocco on Wednesday.
Captain Owen Mukisa, Nicholas Kawooya, and Abdushakur Babi were all on target as the Cubs dominated Group B.
Mukisa opened the scoring in the 36th minute, powering home a header (which may have come off his shoulder) from a brilliant trivela cross by Travor Mubiru.
Mukisa then turned provider, delivering a corner kick that Nicholas Kawooya headed in on the stroke of half-time to make it 2-0.
Uganda were reduced to 10 men in the 80th minute when Travor Mubiru received a second yellow card for a handball in midfield.
However, despite being a man down, the Cubs remained dangerous on the counter.
In the 82nd minute, Arafat Ibanda set up Abdushakur Babi, who produced a clinical finish to complete the scoring.
Group B Standings
- Uganda – 3 points
- Ivory Coast – 3 points (2-0 win over Cameroon)
- Cameroon – 0 points
- DR Congo – 0 points
Uganda will next face Cameroon on Saturday before concluding their group campaign against Ivory Coast on May 19.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage and qualify directly for the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Africa’s additional slots will be decided through playoffs.
Uganda Cubs Starting XI:
Ashraf Lukyamuzi, Enock Mwesiga, Eze Kombi, John Owino, Henry Muhoozi, Owen Mukisa (c), Fahad Ismail, Travor Mubiru, Nicholas Kawooya, Brian Olwa, Mujad Mbalire.
