Harare — St. Mary’s Boarding Secondary School Kitende delivered an impressive performance on the continental stage, finishing runners-up at the CAF African Schools Football Championship 2026 finals held in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Representing Uganda, Kitende progressed through a competitive tournament to reach the final, where they faced a strong Senegal side in a tightly contested match that ended goalless in normal time. Senegal eventually edged the encounter 5–4 in a penalty shootout to claim the title.
Despite the heartbreak, Kitende’s journey to the final underlined their dominance and resilience. The Ugandan side opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against hosts Zimbabwe before registering emphatic victories, including a 6-0 thrashing of DR Congo and a 3-0 win over Morocco.
They then overcame Benin in the semi-finals, winning 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw to book a place in the final.
Head coach Hassan Zzungu praised his team’s determination throughout the competition, especially after improving on last year’s performance where they fell short at the semi-final stage.
“The feeling is so good that we have made it to the final,” Zzungu said after the semi-final victory. “We shall go and fight so that we return home victorious.”
In the final, Kitende held their own against Senegal, creating chances through key players like Owen Mukisa, who had been among the tournament’s standout performers. However, missed opportunities and a decisive penalty save denied Uganda the title.
For finishing second, the Ugandan representatives earned a cash prize of $200,000 (approximately Shs 738 million), funds aimed at supporting sports development at the school.
The Confederation of African Football launched the championship in 2022 to provide a platform for young talent across the continent, and Kitende’s performance has further cemented Uganda’s growing reputation in school football.
Sports analysts say Kitende’s run to the final highlights the strength of Uganda’s school football system, with the team emerging as one of Africa’s top youth sides despite narrowly missing out on the continental crown.
