Uganda takes the positives from U-20 AFCON exit

Uganda’s under 20 team exited the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations but the Hippos remain hopeful that they have built a solid foundation for future success.

The Hippos were beaten 1-0 by Nigeria in the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations tournament that is currently going on in Egypt.

Speaking shortly after elimination, team coach, head coach, Jackson Mayanja said the team had a successful tournament despite the exit at the quarters.

“I am so happy for my boys. They had a fantastic game today. We had a very good tournament, I think the players enjoyed the game .They have done what we told them to do. They have played a fantastic game. We didn’t qualify but this is something we are building a new style of play for the template of Ugandan football. We have left a mark in this tournament with our display,” Mayanja said.

The Nigerian U-20 coach, Ladan Bosso also praised Uganda for a stellar display in Egypt.

“The Ugandan team is very compact and I never expected them to give us such a herculean task but we thank God we had our plans for the match and we worked on them. The Hippos are very composed, compact and I believe that most of their players are in their local league,” Bosso said.

The Nigerian coach predicted that in a few years to come, the Ugandan U-20 team will play in the World Cup finals.

Previously in 2021, Uganda lost 2-0 to Ghana in the U-20 AFCON finals in Mauritania.