David GOMBE
Uganda Hippos kicked off their AFCON U20 campaign with a 2-1 win over Central African Republic in a group B contest at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium, Ismailia.
Second half goals from skipper Ismail Mugulusi and striker John Paul Dembe handed Jackson Mayanja’s side maximum points.
Boris Gbenou found a consolation for Central African Republic deep in stoppage time.
The Hippos dominated proceedings and could have scored more goals with Travis Mutyaba and Titus Ssematimba both coming close.
Just after the recess, Apollo Kakogwe thought he had given the Hippos the lead with a sensational overhead kick but was ruled out for offside.
Moments later, Mugulusi broke the deadlock off a Ssematimba assist.
Ssematimba had his effort hit the post in the 69th minute.
Dembe doubled Uganda’s advantage in the 74th minute before Central African Republic found a consolation through Gbenou in stoppage time.
Uganda will next face off with Congo Brazzaville on Thursday, 23rd February.