The CAF Africa Schools Football Championship in Accra has reached fever pitch, with Uganda making headlines for both triumph and heartbreak. St Noa Girls Secondary School delivered a flawless campaign en route to their historic first final, while St Mary’s Kitende Boys suffered a narrow semifinal defeat in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
St Noa Girls have captivated the continent with a remarkable run, blending tactical discipline and attacking flair. Their 2-0 victory over Morocco in the semifinal was a masterclass in composure and determination. Captain Giovanna Aketowanga opened the scoring with a decisive finish, while Namaseruka Lydia doubled the advantage with a dazzling individual effort. Boasting an impregnable defense that has not conceded a single goal and a tally of nine goals in four matches, St Noa now sets their sights on Saturday’s grand finale against host nation Ghana.
In stark contrast, the St Mary’s Kitende Boys saw their title hopes dashed by Senegal in a goalless draw settled by penalties. The tense shootout ended 6-5 in favor of the West Africans, leaving the Ugandan boys devastated yet dignified in defeat. Their solid performance throughout the tournament had raised expectations, but football’s cruel lottery left them with the consolation of contesting the third-place playoff against Ghana.
The boys’ final will witness defending champions Tanzania take on Senegal in what promises to be a high-octane encounter. Both teams have showcased technical brilliance and mental fortitude, setting the stage for a riveting climax to the boys’ championship. As the spotlight turns to these two football powerhouses, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
For Uganda, Saturday represents more than just final placements—it symbolizes growth, grit, and the dawning of a new era in school football. With St Noa poised to make history and St Mary’s Kitende aiming for redemption, the passion of Ugandan fans will undoubtedly echo across the Accra Sports Stadium. Regardless of results, Uganda’s presence has already left an indelible mark on the tournament.
