St Mary's Kitende Earns Shs740m Despite Penalty Heartbreak to Senegal in CAF Schools Final

Uganda’s St Mary’s Kitende suffered a narrow defeat in the boys’ final of the CAF African Schools Football Championship, losing 5-4 on penalties to Senegal after a tense 0-0 draw in Norton, Zimbabwe.

The match featured intense action over two 20-minute halves. Uganda pushed hard in the second period, with Shakur Ngobi narrowly missing a close-range shot set up by Owen Mukisa. Goalkeeper Imran Ssebbale made a crucial save to keep hopes alive against Senegal’s Mamadou.

In the shootout, Uganda’s Bashir Edema, Shafiq Kitimbo, Frank Musisi, and Akram Ssenyonga converted, but captain Livingstone Kulata’s decisive kick was stopped by Senegal’s Prosper Pereira, securing their first title.

Despite missing the Shs1.1bn top prize, Kitende pockets about Shs740m for long-term school improvements, including classroom construction, library upgrades, and sports facilities.

Owen Mukisa shone as tournament top scorer with five goals. Senegal’s Bara Gueye earned player of the tournament, with Pereira named best goalkeeper.

In the girls’ final, Ghana defended their crown, beating Burkina Faso 9-8 on penalties. This was the fourth edition, following wins by Mali, Tanzania (twice), and now Senegal.

Kitende’s path: 1-1 vs Zimbabwe, 6-0 vs DR Congo, 3-0 vs Morocco, and 4-3 penalty win over Benin in semis.

Source: Daily Monitor