In the vibrant world of professional football, where dreams are made and legacies forged, Mustafa Kizza’s journey has been one of unwavering determination and sheer talent.
The Ugandan defender’s move from his hometown club KCCA to the bright lights of the MLS with CF Montreal in 2020 was a pivotal moment, and his debut performance against DC United would prove to be a true testament to his mettle.
Mustafa Kizza was very instrumental on his debut game as the side came from behind twice to win 3-2 at DC United on November 9th, 2020, at the Audi Field, and qualify for the MLS playoffs for the first time since 2016.
Recounting the experience in an interview with Media 21 UG YouTube channel, Kizza vividly described the mix of emotions he felt as he stepped onto the pitch for the first time in his new colours.
“On my way to my first game, I was very happy. I was very excited because I was going to be watched on the big screens by fans and my family at home,” he shared.
The pressure of a debut match can often be overwhelming, but Kizza’s unwavering faith and preparation proved to be his guiding light. “Before the game, the coach told me what system he was expecting me to play, and thankfully, that’s the same system I used to play at KCCA with coach Mike Mutebi,” he explained.
Entering the game as a substitute in the 71st minute, with his side trailing 2-1, Kizza was immediately fouled by the opposition, but the left-back refused to be daunted.
“I entered as a substitute when my team was behind, and i was fouled by an opposition player, just after my first touch but that didn’t deter me.” Kizza said.
As the match unfolded, Kizza’s impact was then felt 3 minutes later, rising to the occasion with a moment of pure brilliance.
“Moments after, I stole the ball, made a long-range pass past the opposition defenders to one of our players (Romell Quioto), who passed to Victor (Wanyama), and he scored to equalise,” he recounted, his eyes sparkling with pride.
But Kizza’s contribution didn’t end there. In the closing stages of the match, with his team clinging to a narrow 3-2 lead, the Ugandan demonstrated his defensive prowess, making a crucial clearance to deny DC United an equaliser.
“In added time, when the opposition team was almost scoring us, I defended the ball very well. The striker wanted to dodge me, but I slid and took away the ball from him, and then the game ended, and we’d qualified for the next stage,” he recalled.
Kizza’s performance impressed his new coach Thierry Henry. “After the game, the coach Henry was very happy with my contribution in the game. He put me aside and told me how he was so proud of me.”
“He also told me that I changed everything when I entered the game and was the reason why we’d won.” He added
Kizza’s debut delight was further amplified by the warm reception he received from his new teammates. “When I reached the dressing room, my fellow players were singing my name. This gave me a lot of confidence and added to my excitement at my new club,” he revealed.
Mustafa Kizza’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering belief. From his humble beginnings in Kibuli, to the bright lights of the MLS, his journey has been one of grit, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Mustafa Kizza had a successful stint at CF Montreal between 2020 and 2021 where he had 20 appearances, and in the 2021/22 season, he came back to his former side KCCA.
He has since played three seasons with them, including last season where he was superb for the Lugogo-based side in his 14 Uganda Premier League appearances for them.
