South Sudan secured a 3-0 victory over Somalia in the opening match of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Kampala, Uganda. Goals from Shakir Antacio, Panon Jou, and Lazarus Peter George Laku propelled them to the win. Meanwhile, Uganda and Tanzania drew 1-1 in a Group A match, contributing to the competitive atmosphere of the tournament where six teams aim for two qualifying spots for the AFCON to be held in Ivory Coast next year.
In the opening match of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers held in Kampala, Uganda, South Sudan triumphed over reigning champions Somalia with a decisive 3-0 victory. The match unfolded at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, where South Sudan displayed resilience after a promising start by Somalia. The first goal for South Sudan was scored by Shakir Antacio with a powerful long-range shot in the 38th minute, followed by a second from Panon Jou just before halftime, completing a well-executed cross. Lazarus Peter George Laku sealed the victory with a free-kick goal in the second half. Despite Somalia’s efforts to shift momentum through tactical changes, South Sudan’s defense remained impenetrable, led by skilled players such as Kudum Chol and Captain Ronaldo Jonothan. “I am happy that my team managed to contain the pressure by Somalia and later score three goals,” expressed South Sudan’s coach Nasir Yousif Hassen Bakit. With this victory, South Sudan leads Group B with three points and is slated to compete against Sudan in their next match.
In the second match of the day, Uganda faced Tanzania in a Group A clash that ended in a 1-1 draw. Saleh Ally scored first for Tanzania, while Uganda responded with a goal from Isima Magala. The qualifiers, featuring six teams, aim to identify the best two groups that will progress to the U-17 AFCON in Ivory Coast next year.
The TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are significant as they determine which teams will compete in the continental championship and simultaneously serve as qualifiers for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. The current tournament, organized by CECAFA, involves several teams competing over a series of matches, with the stakes high for all participating nations. As the teams vie for a top position in their respective groups, the performance in early matches can heavily influence overall tournament outcomes. Previous withdrawals by Ethiopia and Burundi reshaped group dynamics, intensifying the competition among the remaining nations.
The opening day of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers showcased an impressive performance by South Sudan, marking their victory against reigning champions Somalia, thereby laying a strong foundation for their tournament campaign. The competition continues with crucial matches ahead, as teams strive to secure a spot in the upcoming continental championship. With heightened rivalries and the pressure of qualification looming, the upcoming fixtures promise to deliver engaging football.
Original Source: cecafaonline.com
