Uganda have been crowned the new CECAFA U17 champions after overcoming Somalia in a dramatic final that was decided by a penalty shootout.

The two sides battled to a tense 0-0 draw after 90 minutes, with neither team able to find the breakthrough despite a fiercely contested encounter.

With the trophy on the line, the championship final went straight to penalties, where Uganda eventually held their nerve to secure a 6-5 victory.

The shootout provided a fittingly dramatic conclusion to a closely fought final, as Uganda edged Somalia by the narrowest possible margin to lift the regional title.

For Uganda, the triumph marks a memorable achievement for their young generation and adds another significant chapter to the country's football development at youth level.

Somalia, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on a courageous campaign that ultimately ended in heartbreak. Their players pushed Uganda all the way and came within one successful penalty of forcing the contest in their favour.

The result sees Uganda take their place at the top of CECAFA's U17 footballing landscape, while Somalia will look to build on their impressive run and return stronger in future editions.

Final: Uganda 0-0 Somalia

Penalties: Uganda win 6-5

Champion: 🇺🇬 Uganda 🏆

Source https://x.com/MickyJnr__/status/2112216116877537286