CECAFA U23 Challenge Cup
Uganda 0-0 DRC
Bahir Dar international Stadium
Sunday, 18-07-2021
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Uganda earned a valuable point during the goal-less group A contest of the CECAFA U-23 Challenge cup with Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the Bahir Dar International Stadium on Sunday.
The physical duel that kicked off at lunch time witnessed either side create several goal scoring opportunities but to no avail as the backlines remained solid throughout.
Uganda came close to breaking the deadlock in the opening stanza but forward Derrick Kakooza tapped wide a delivery from captain Enock Walusimbi.
Earlier in the first half, Steven Sserwadda limped out for Bright Anukani.
There were a couple of changes made as the second half progressed. Kakooza and Steven Mukwala paved way for Najib Yiga and Samuel Ssenyonjo respectively on the hour.
With 15 minutes to play, another double change witnessed the introduction of Abdallah Salim and Sadam Masereka for Julius Poloto and Karim Watambala respectively.
Uganda’s head coach Morley Byekwaso described the result as fair but castigated the frontline for not scoring.
“I have to thank the players for the point and the brave display. We failed to finish and take away the chances created. DR Congo players are well built and physical. We need to go back to the drawing board as we plan for the next match.” Byekwaso told the post match press conference.
There is plenty of time for recovery and planning ahead of the second group game for the two side next Sunday against Tanzania.
Starting XIs
Uganda
Charles Lukwago (GK), Enock Walusimbi (C), Musa Ramathan, Peter Magambo, Aziz Kayondo, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Karim Watambala, Julius Poloto, Derrick Kakooza, Steven Mukwala.
DR Congo
Efong Brudel (GK), Ebuela Steven, Nsundi Christian, Maxi Mpia, Merveille Kikasa, Joel Beya, Karim Kimvuidi, Henock Mangindula, Jacques Mangoba, Kaluo Mokonzi, Magloire Ntambwe.
