The Uganda Hippos launched their 2026 CECAFA U-20 Championship campaign with a statement 4-1 victory against Djibouti at the Uwanja wa Uhuru Stadium.
Star forward Isma Magala put on a masterclass performance, grabbing a brace and an assist to ensure Uganda took all three points in the opening fixture of the regional tournament.
Uganda signaled their intentions early, controlling the tempo from the opening whistle.
It took just six minutes for the Hippos to breach the Djiboutian defense when Isma Magala latched onto a precise pass from Derrick Ssozi to slot home the opener.
Djibouti fought back and found an equalizer through Ishak Tahir, who converted a opportunity set up by Safwan Mohamed Ahmed.
However, Uganda restored their advantage right on the stroke of halftime. Magala turned provider, setting up Ocen Odiya in the first minute of stoppage time (45+1′) to send the Hippos into the tunnel with a 2-1 lead.
The Hippos returned after the break with heightened intensity, completely pinning Djibouti in their own half.
Playmaker Elvis Opakrwoth took center stage, supplying two brilliant assists to put the game beyond reach.
63rd Minute: Opakrwoth picked out Richard Okello, who finished with composure to extend Uganda’s lead to 3-1.
69rd Minute: Opakrwoth turned creator once more, setting up Isma Magala for his second goal of the afternoon to seal a emphatic 4-1 triumph.
The commanding performance places Uganda at the summit of the group ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
TODAY’S REMAINING MATCHES (UWANA WA UHURU)
The action continues later today at Uwanja wa Uhuru with a thrilling double-header in store:
South Sudan vs. Burundi
Tanzania vs. Rwanda
