FEASSSA: Uganda successfully defends boys’ and girls’ football titles in Morogoro

The Ugandan giants had to withstand a strong challenge from the hosts, who had already made history by becoming the first Tanzanian boys’ side to reach the regional semi-finals before progressing to the final.

Morogoro’s run had generated considerable excitement among the home supporters, but Kitende once again demonstrated the experience that has made them the dominant force in East African school football.

The boys’ trophy had been won by another Ugandan side, Bukedea Comprehensive Academy, at last year’s FEASSSA Games in Kisumu, Kenya, but their failure to progress from the group stage this time meant a new champion had to be crowned.

In the girls’ competition, Rines completed a remarkable campaign by overcoming Amus College 4-3 on penalties after the final ended goalless in regulation time.

Halima Mupyango, Rines captain Justine Ayerango, Edith Nakiseka and Shamirah Namukabirye converted their spot-kicks to put the Ugandan side in control of the shoot-out.

Patricia Nakato Nanyanzi was the only Rines player to miss, with Amus goalkeeper Angella Adeke saving her opening attempt.

Amus responded through Elizabeth Alupo, Emilly Nabuzale and Jazira Amiya, but their hopes disappeared when Abigali Nekesa fired wide before Charity Katusiime saw her effort saved by Rines goalkeeper Bridget Yuko Nansamba.

The victory delivered Rines’ first FEASSSA gold medal at East African level and added another chapter to Uganda’s remarkable record in the girls’ competition.

“I am excited for this victory. The mission has been fulfilled,” Ayerango said after the triumph. “I thank my fellow teammates, the coaches, school management and our fans.”

The dominance was underlined further in the girls’ bronze-medal match, where Boni Consili Vocational and Secondary School defeated Rwanda’s PSB Huye 2-1 at Ujenzi Playground to complete an all-Ugandan podium.

Uganda therefore finished first, second and third in the girls’ football competition, with Rines taking gold, Amus College silver and Boni Consili bronze.

The double triumph continues Uganda’s remarkable dominance of FEASSSA football, with the country once again leaving Morogoro with both major football crowns despite strong challenges from hosts Tanzania, Kenya and Rwanda.

For Tanzania, Morogoro Secondary School’s run to the boys’ final nevertheless provided a historic breakthrough, while Rwanda’s PSB Huye also reached the girls’ semi-finals.

Kenya, meanwhile, endured a disappointing football campaign, with both St. Mary’s Yala and Kakamega School eliminated in the boys’ competition and Nyakach Girls and St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale falling short in the girls’ tournament.