29 December 2024 | Football

• FT: Uganda 1-0 Burundi

Hakim Kiwanuka’s late goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Uganda against Burundi in the CHAN Qualifiers on Sunday at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

The win ensured Uganda progressed with a 2-0 aggregate triumph, ending Burundi's hopes of reaching the upcoming CHAN finals.

Uganda began the match on a shaky note, with Burundi’s attacking line putting them under early pressure.

The visitors attempted to break through with intricate passing, but Uganda’s defence stood resolute.

A moment of miscommunication in Uganda's backline nearly proved costly when goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa handled the ball outside the area, but the resulting free kick was blocked by the wall.

As the first half neared its end, Allan Okello created a golden chance for Isaac Ogwang, but the forward’s finish lacked precision.

Early in the second half, Saidi Mayanja came close to breaking the deadlock, only to see his close-range effort deflected for a corner.

Moments later, Patrick Kakande fouled Kevin Icoyitunge at the edge of the box, but the subsequent free kick was cleared to safety.

In the 80th minute, substitute Ivan Ahimbisibwe nearly put Uganda ahead, but his rebound effort skimmed off the side netting.

Milton Karisa also came close when his cutback set up Saidi Mayanja, whose flick was securely saved by Burundi’s goalkeeper, Dieudonne Ntibahezwa.

The breakthrough finally came in the dying moments. Kiwanuka’s low drive took a deflection and nestled into the back of the net, sparking celebrations.

Uganda XI: Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Gavin Kizito, Gideon Odongo, Rogers Torach, Hillary Mukundane, Joel Sserunjogi, Saidi Mayanja, Isaac Ogwang, Allan Okello (C), Milton Karisa, Jude Ssemugabi.

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