Ugandan forward John Paul Dembe etched his name into the record books after scoring for BK Häcken in the UEFA Europa Conference League, becoming the first Ugandan ever to score in the competition.
The 20-year-old was on target in Häcken’s 2–1 defeat to Strasbourg on Thursday night, marking another milestone in his promising rise through European football.
Strasbourg took control of the contest through Julio Enciso in the 21st minute and Martial Godo on the hour mark, but Dembe responded almost instantly.
The former KCCA FC striker reacted quickest inside the area, firing home from close range to halve the deficit and give Häcken a lifeline.
Dembe led the line with energy and intent before being withdrawn in the 73rd minute for Samuel Leach.
His goal capped another impressive display, having already featured in Häcken’s previous two Conference League fixtures, starting against Shelbourne and coming off the bench against Rayo Vallecano.
Still awaiting his first Uganda Cranes cap, Dembe’s performances in Europe have placed him firmly in contention for selection ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next month.
His confidence, movement, and sharp finishing continue to underline his growing potential as one of Uganda’s most exciting young strikers.
From the Ugandan youth football to European nights, John Paul Dembe’s journey is fast becoming a story of belief and breakthrough.
