David GOMBE
Uganda’s FIFA U17 World Cup carnival cake to an end on Tuesday after a penalty shootout defeat to Burkina Faso at the round of 16 stage.
Uganda crashed out 5-3 on penalties after the game had ended 1-1 in normal time at Aspire Zone Pitch 5 in Qatar.
Brian Ssenyondo’s side had eliminated Senegal in the round of 32 while Burkina Faso edged reigning champions Germany at the same stage.
The Cubs were without their starman James Bogere due to suspension against the Young Stallions. Enock Bagenda started in his place.
After a goalless first half, Arafat Nkoola handed the Cubs the lead in the 56th minute with a sensational curler after being set up by Abubakali Walusimbi.
In the 77th minute, substitute Alassana Bagayogo restored parity for the Young Stallions forcing the game into a penalty shootout after normal time.
Before the final whistle, coach Ssenyondo made two late changes with goalkeeper Adrian Mukwanga replacing Edrisah Waibi and Derrick Ssozi came on for goal scorer Nkoola.
Ssozi was the only victim in the shootout when his kick hit the bar while the West African side converted all their five penalties.
Burkina Faso under the stewardship of Oscar Barro will face Italy in the quarterfinals. The Italians eliminated Uzbekistan 3-2 in their round of 16 contest.
