By Jude Atwiine (Photos by FUFA Media)
The Under-20 Men’s National side commenced their quest for gold at the 13th Edition of the All Africa Games-Accra 2023 last evening with an inspired victory over Nigeria thanks to two super strikes by Usama Arafat and Ivan Irinimbabazi.
The game saw several very familiar faces from the USSSA National Boys Championship- 2023 take center stage and play a pivotal role in what was a sweet revenge over the Young Eagles.
In the 33rd minute, Allan Oyirwoth ( previously a student at Amus College School) sparked off an attack from deep within his own half to set up Usama Arafat for the first goal of the tournament for Coach Morley Byekwaso’s side.
With Uganda enjoying a lion’s share of the ball possession, the Nigerians capitalized on a corner kick which leveled matters for the contest. This set up an even clingy second stanza with both sides looking to find a winner but there was always one inspired side.
The 81st minute was bound to see Usama Arafat ( former student at St. Mary’s Boarding School kitende) present a clear-cut chance in the hands of Ivan Irinimbabazi who made no mistake but to restore Uganda’s lead.
Here’s a list of players that were involved in the clash and their schools
Ronald Madoi -(St. Mary’s Boarding School Kitende)
Rogers Torach – St. Mary’s Boarding School Kitende
Allan Oyirwoth – Amus College School (previously)
Jonah Patrick Kakande – Uganda Martyrs High School-Lubaga ( previously)
Hakim Mutebi – St. Mary’s Boarding School Kitende
Enock Luyima- St. Mary’s Boarding School Kitende
John Innocent Kisolo – St. Henry’s College Kitovu
Shamulan Kamya – Royal Giant High School
With these youngsters’ involvement in the ongoing championship in Ghana, there is a clear path for the development of talents all from school sports to professional level.
As a result, all eyes will be on the USSSA National Boys Championship- 2024 in Masaka to watch out for the next crop of players to step on the big stage.
Meanwhile, Uganda leads Group B by three points, same as Senegal who won 1-0 against South Sudan on the same day.
The Uganda Hippos will return to action on Monday, 11th March 2024 against Senegal at the same venue.