U-20 AFCON: Uganda beat Burkina Faso to storm semis

Uganda Hippos have qualified for the semi-final stage at the on-going U-20 Total Africa Cup of Nations.

After a goalless draw Uganda Hippos edged Burkina Faso 5-3 on penalties at the Cheikha Boidiya Stadium in Nouakchott on Thursday night.

Uganda who are making their debut in the U-20 Afcon now join Ghana at the semi-final stage before two more games are played today. Ghana ejected Cameroon 4-2 on spot kicks in the first quarter final encounter played on Thursday.

It was Uganda’s goalkeeper Jack Komakech who saved Yacouba Djiga’s final spot kick to earn his team a place in the semis.

“I am very happy that the boys played their hearts out and remained strong to win in the penalties. We need to continue working hard ahead of the semis,” said Uganda’s coach Morley Byekwaso.

Uganda will now face winner between Morocco and Tunisia in Monday’s semi-final in Nouakchott. The Central African Republic will battle Gambia in the other quarter final match today.

In the group stage Uganda edged Mozambique 2-0 before falling to Cameroon 1-0 and defeating hosts Mauritania 2-1.

Cecafa’s other representatives Tanzania failed to make it out of the group after suffering two defeats and drawing once.