Uganda win, Burundi fall in 2019 AFCON opening games

CECAFA representatives Uganda Cranes and Burundi kicked started their campaign in the on-going 2019 Total Africa Cup of nations (AFCON) on Saturday with different results.

At the Cairo International Stadium Uganda brushed a side the democratic Republic of Congo 2-0 in a Group A match, while Burundi fell 1-0 to Nigeria in a Group B match played in Alexandria.

Patrick Henry Kaddu scored for Uganda after 30 minutes with a well taken headed goal, while Arnold Emmanuel Okwi made it 2-0 after 48 minutes. Both goals were assisted by Farouk Miya.

DR Congo lead by England based Yannick Bolasie Youssouf Mulumbu failed to get their act together as Uganda Cranes dominated play in all departments.

Head coach Sebastien Desabre said he was happy that they started the tournament with a win. Okwi was voted man of the match. Uganda will next face Zimbabwe on Wednesday.

In Alexandria Burundi played tight but conceded a goal against three-time winners Nigeria after 77 minutes. Second half substitute Odion Ighalo scored the only goal with a curled finish past Burundi goalkeeper Jonathan Nahimana.

CECAFA’s other representatives Kenya and Tanzania will be in action in Group C on Sunday at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.