By: Danito Nsubuga
The Uganda Hippos stunned the African U20 champions Zambia in their opening match of the group A with a spirited individual display from Captain Mohammed Shaban.
The hosts were the overwhelming favourites to run away with all 3 points but the Hippos proved the more prepared side and by the close of half time, the Hippos had created the more clear cut chances.
Uganda were lucky not to fall behind as Prince Mumba’s shot hit the post with Saidi Keni beaten. The Young Proline custodian also made a series of saves to keep Uganda into the game.
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Enter the second period, Hippos head coach Matia Lule introduced on a more direct Shafiq Kagimu for the elaborative Frank Tumwesigye and with only 6 minutes later, Mohammed Shaban had hit the target to put Uganda into a deserved lead off a Steven Mukwala cross.
Shaban Muhammad was it again with an other superbly converted effort to extend Uganda’s lead on the 54th minute.
The captain almost registered a well deserved hat trick on the 69th minute but his effort was ruled off for offside by the referee.
The Hippos now top group A with 3 points and 2 goals, followed by Malawi who edged Swaziland 3-2 in a 5 goal thriller earlier on.
Uganda’s next game will be against Swaziland on Friday the 8th of December.
