The semi-final match of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations – CECAFA qualifiers features defending champions Somalia against host nation Uganda. Both teams are eager to demonstrate their readiness for the knockout stage. Somalia seeks redemption after a rocky start, while Uganda enters confidently after dominating Group A. South Sudan and Tanzania will also compete in the other semi-final tie, with a chance to qualify for the AFCON in Morocco at stake.
In a highly anticipated semi-final clash of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) – CECAFA qualifiers, the defending champions Somalia are poised to face Uganda. Somalia’s head coach, Mohamed Abdulkhadir Shikhdon, expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, recalling their previous victory over Uganda at the same level in 2022. Meanwhile, Uganda’s coach Brian Ssenyondo stresses the importance of sharpness in both the attacking and defensive departments to secure an early advantage in the game.
The semi-finals will take place at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium in Kampala, with South Sudan also facing Tanzania in the first tie. Somalia enters the match after a rocky journey, overcoming Group B challenges with a narrow 1-0 win over Sudan, thanks to a late goal. In contrast, Uganda topped Group A confidently, following a decisive 5-0 triumph against Kenya. Both teams are aware that the knockout stage presents unique challenges, and victory is crucial to qualify for the U-17 AFCON in Morocco next year.
The experts predict a tightly contested match, with both coaches urging their teams to maintain focus and capitalize on scoring opportunities. South Sudan’s coach has acknowledged the need for increased effort from his players in their semi-final, while Tanzania’s coach has highlighted the necessity for strong organization against South Sudan’s potent attack.
The best two teams from these semi-finals will qualify for the prestigious tournament in Morocco, making every moment critical as the youth teams battle for glory and a chance to showcase their talent on the continental stage.
The CECAFA qualifiers for the U-17 AFCON are a crucial stepping stone for young football talents in East Africa, with teams vying for a chance to compete in the U-17 AFCON in Morocco. Teams from six nations are participating in this tournament, which serves as a platform for youth football development in the region. The semi-finals feature reigning champions Somalia against hosts Uganda, alongside South Sudan taking on Tanzania. Each team aims to prove their mettle as they strive for qualification. In this region, football is not only a sport but a source of national pride and opportunity for its young players, who aspire to bring glory to their countries on international stages.
In summary, the upcoming semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations – CECAFA qualifiers promise to deliver an exciting showdown between heavily motivated teams. Both Somalia and Uganda’s U-17 squads are positioned to showcase their skills and determination, with each coach emphasizing the critical nature of goal efficiency and teamwork. As they vie for a ticket to the continental tournament in Morocco, the stakes could not be higher for these young athletes.
Original Source: cecafaonline.com
