Ugandan powerhouse St Mary’s Kitende have made history by reaching the semi-finals of the CAF Africa Schools Football Championship for the first time after a dramatic group stage comeback in Accra, Ghana.
The East African representatives finished second in Group A with six points and five goals, bouncing back from an opening day setback to secure their spot among the continent’s top four.
Kitende’s campaign began on a sour note, suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the hosts, Ghana, in the tournament opener.
With qualification hopes hanging in the balance, Head Coach Hassan Zungu rallied his charges to deliver back-to-back wins that saw the team rise from the brink of elimination to title contention.
The boys responded emphatically in their second match, crushing Algeria with goals from Kajumba Nabiru, Muhoozi Henry, Kulata Livingstone, and Kabenge Pius.
The victory not only revived their campaign but also set the tone for a final group clash with South Africa, where Kitende needed at least a point to progress.
They did more than that. Muhoozi struck early in the ninth minute before Nabiru doubled the lead in the 20th.
Ashraf Kyakuwa added a third, and Yasin Nsubuga capped off the scoring with a fourth goal.
South Africa grabbed a consolation, but the Ugandans’ dominance was unquestionable.
Kitende’s semi-final against Senegal is scheduled for 5:00 PM EAT on Friday at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The fixture revives memories of last year’s goalless draw between the two sides in Tanzania.
Victory today would not only avenge last year’s early exit but also secure Uganda’s first appearance in the boys’ final of the CAF Schools Championship.
