The Uganda U20 Men’s National Football Team, the Hippos, have defeated Congo Brazzaville in the semi-finals of the 13th African Games at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium in Accra.
The Hippos defied all odds to win the final, overcoming Congo, who was leading by 2-0 in the first half. In the second half, Uganda staged a dramatic comeback and led by 4-2.
The Hippos fell short in the 15th minute, with Akouala Servyl scoring for Congo from a free kick. Congo added a second goal by Mignon Koto just before halftime.
The teams returned for the second half, and Uganda’s first goal came through in the 60th minute from Abasi Kyeyune, giving the team hope for victory.
Ten minutes later, Buno Bunyaga equalized the score at 2-2. In the 73rd minute, Bunyaga scored his second, making it 3-2 for the team. Hakim Mutebi scored the last goal in the 81st minute to complete a stunning comeback victory.
Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso attributed their success to prayers and hard work. He also expressed his team’s aspirations to join the ranks of African football giants such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, emphasizing the influence of players who have gained experience abroad and returned to share their knowledge.
“Our secret has been prayers and hard work. We aspire to be one of the giants in African football,” Byekwaso said.
Uganda Hippos will be playing host nation Ghana in the finals of the 13th African Game in Accra, while Senegal and Congo Brazzaville will play for the bronze medal.
Uganda will compete in the African Games final for the first time, having failed to advance past the semifinals in South Africa in 1999.
