East Africa sub-confederation CECAFA has determined its two representatives at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations next year in Egypt following Tuesday’s semifinal round of its regional qualifying competition. Uganda defeated competition hosts Sudan 2-0 to see the Hippos qualify for their second consecutive AFCON U-20 while South Sudan continue the growth of their reputation in African football after defeating Ethiopia in a penalty kick shootout following a 2-2 draw.
Uganda did well to overcome the hosts, holding out to keep the match scoreless by halftime before striking early in the second half. Rogers Torach finished in the 54th minute after a free kick from out wide caused the Sudanese defense issues. The Hippos finished the match off when captain Isma Mugulusi ran onto a pass behind the defense and rounded the goalkeeper for an easy finish in the 71st minute. Any chance the hosts had of coming back evaporated following a straight red card five minutes later.
South Sudan will be competing in their first ever AFCON U-20 to continue an incredible year in youth national team competitions in 2022. Only a month after the country’s U-17 side qualified for the 2023 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations the under-20 side came back from deficits twice, including after going down in the second half of extra time, to eventually defeat Ethiopia on penalty kicks.
Highlights from both games in Sudan are below. Uganda and South Sudan will take part in the final tournament in Egypt which starts on February 18.
Scores
South Sudan 2-2 Ethiopia
(South Sudan wins 4-2 in penalty shootout)
Sudan 0-2 Uganda
Highlights
Sudan 0-2 Uganda
South Sudan 2-2 Ethiopia (South Sudan win on penalties)