Uganda U20 Eliminated by Sudan in Dramatic CECAFA Championship Semi-Final

Uganda U20 suffered a heartbreaking 3–2 defeat to Sudan U20 in the semi-finals of the CECAFA U20 Championship Play-Offs, bringing their hopes of reaching the tournament final to an end.

The highly competitive encounter, played on 22 September 2026, produced five goals as both sides battled for a place in the championship decider.

Uganda Take Early Lead

Uganda made a bright start and took the lead in the 7th minute through Rogers Okello. The early goal gave the Ugandan youngsters an advantage and put Sudan under pressure.

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However, Sudan responded just three minutes later. M. Rudwan found the equaliser in the 10th minute, restoring parity and ensuring the teams went into the break level at 1–1.

Sudan Turn the Game Around

Sudan came out strongly after the interval and completed their comeback in the 48th minute when Waheed Shandi scored to put his side ahead for the first time.

Uganda refused to surrender and continued pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 66th minute, when D. Ssozi scored to make it 2–2.

With the match finely balanced, both teams continued to search for the decisive goal.

Taowr Delivers the Decisive Blow

Sudan ultimately had the final say. M. Taowr scored in the 82nd minute, restoring Sudan's lead at 3–2.

Uganda had the remaining minutes to find another equaliser, but Sudan held firm to secure a dramatic victory and book their place in the final.

Match Summary

The result represents a painful exit for Uganda U20 after twice finding the net but ultimately being unable to contain Sudan's attacking threat. Sudan's winner with just eight minutes of normal time remaining proved decisive.

Final Score: 🇺🇬 Uganda U20 2–3 Sudan U20 🇸🇩

Sudan advance to the CECAFA U20 Championship final, while Uganda will now turn their attention to the remaining play-off fixture as they look to finish the tournament on a positive note.