By Lubulwa Edrine
The highly anticipation CECAFA zonal qualifies CAF African Schools Football Championship kicked off today Tuesday at St Marys Kitende in Wakiso, Uganda.
Ten goals have been scored on match day one in six games for both boys and girls as team Uganda started on fire.
Anastanzia Mbeika’s brace inspired St Noa girls to over came Burundi in a 2-1 narrow Victory on the opening day.
Uganda representatives St Noa first sent their supplications to the Almighty, before embarking on a warm-up of their first game of the CAF schools U15 football championship against Burundi. Tanzania humiliated Rwanda in a 5-1 victory.
On the other hand of boys, Uganda’s representative and the hosts St Marys Kitende beat Somali (1-0) and managed a 0-0 draw with Rwanda to clinch four points on match day one. The other two games played ended goalless.
In this competition, nine countries are vying for top honors in both boys and girls U15 categories in Uganda at St Marys Stadium Kitende in Wakiso between December 10th – 12th.
The tournament, a brainchild of CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, promises an exciting showcase of youth football talent and international camaraderie.
This season marks a significant milestone in the championship’s growth, with over 800,000 young African boys and girls from more than 28,000 schools across 44 countries participating.
The competition is structured into three phases: National, Zonal, and Continental – providing a platform for budding footballers to showcase their skills on an international stage.
Beyond the competitive aspect on the field, CAF’s commitment to holistic development is evident.
Initiatives like the Young Reporters Programme, Young Referee Programme, Medical Officer Programme, Coaches Programme and the CAF Safeguarding Programme are seamlessly integrated into the championship.
These programs are designed to empower the young participants not only as athletes but also as future leaders, instilling values that extend beyond the football pitch.
The competition forms part of the CAF President’s commitment to developing Africa’s next generation of football talent and future leaders.
Results
Boys
Tanzania 0-0 Burundi
Uganda 1-0 Somalia
Rwanda 0-0 Uganda
Somalia 0-0 Tanzania
Girls
Tanzania 5-1 Rwanda
Uganda 2-1 Burundi
