Uganda’s U-17 nationwide staff, the Cubs, settled for a FIFA U-17 World Cup playoff place following a dramatic 2-2 draw in opposition to Côte d’Ivoire of their last Group B match on the U-17 AFCON match in Morocco.
Needing a constructive consequence to maintain their World Cup hopes alive, Uganda confirmed large combating spirit to rescue a degree deep into stoppage time and keep in competition for qualification.
Already assured of a spot within the subsequent spherical, Côte d’Ivoire began brightly and took the lead within the twenty fifth minute by Koudougnon Drebo, whose highly effective strike gave the Younger Elephants a deserved benefit.
Uganda responded properly and located an equaliser simply earlier than halftime when Henry Muhoozi scored within the forty first minute to make it 1-1 on the break.
After halftime, Côte d’Ivoire regained management and seemed set to assert victory when Souleymane Kone restored their lead within the 79th minute.
Nevertheless, Uganda refused to surrender. Deep into stoppage time, the Cubs earned a penalty following a VAR evaluation after a chaotic second contained in the Ivorian penalty space.
Arafat Ibanda held his nerve and transformed from the spot within the 90+14th minute to spark wild celebrations and safe Uganda a vital draw.
The consequence noticed Côte d’Ivoire end high of Group B with seven factors, whereas Uganda settled for a playoff place as they proceed their pursuit of qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
