What's Hot

    Electoral Process Was a Sham’, Jinja NUP Youth Leaders Cry Foul, Petition EC

    June 21, 2025

    Brazil Pushes for 2029 Club World Cup Hosting Deal

    June 21, 2025

    Esther Mbayo asks Luuka to trust her again

    June 18, 2025
    Facebook Twitter Instagram
    Facebook Twitter Instagram
    Busoga TodayBusoga Today
    Subscribe
    Monday, June 23
    • National
    • Kyabazinga
    • Features
    • Business
    • Entertainment
    • Africa
    • World
    • Sports
    • Others
      • Columnists
      • Community
      • Development
      • Districts
      • Education
      • Trends
      • Relationships
      • Society
    Busoga TodayBusoga Today
    Home » Rising above: Uganda’s inspiring run at the Rugby Africa Men’s 7s 2023
    Sports

    Rising above: Uganda’s inspiring run at the Rugby Africa Men’s 7s 2023

    EditorBy EditorSeptember 18, 2023No Comments3 Mins Read
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    Photo credit: Uganda Rugby Union
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email
    Kakira

    In the world of sports, captivating stories often revolve around the resilience and determination of athletes and teams. Uganda’s remarkable journey during the Paramount Garments Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens 2023 tournament is one such tale. It was a rollercoaster ride filled with triumphs, challenges, and a resounding message that transcended the rugby field.

    The journey began with a bang as Uganda faced off against Algeria in their opening match. With the defending champions eager to assert their dominance, Pius Ogena wasted no time, touching down within the first minute. It was a wake-up call that Algeria couldn’t ignore. Uganda went on to score seven tries, with Nobert Okeny, Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Adrian Kasito, Alex Aturinda (2), and Mubarak Wandera contributing to the dominant display. Philip Wokorach converted six tries, showcasing their all-around prowess. However, it wasn’t a flawless start, as Isaac Massanganzira received a yellow card for a high tackle.

    Despite a second win against Burkina Faso, head coach Tolbert Onyango couldn’t help but express concerns about the team’s defense. While Uganda secured a 36-19 victory, their West African opponents managed to score three nearly identical tries. Onyango attributed this to “underestimation” of their opponents and emphasized the need for focus. Despite the defensive lapses, Uganda had progressed to the Cup Quarterfinals, setting the stage for more challenges.

    The final match of Day One pitted Uganda against Zimbabwe, and the hosts proved to be a formidable adversary. Zimbabwe’s Cheetahs secured a resounding 35-05 victory over the defending champions, leaving fans stunned. Uganda’s mistakes from earlier matches came back to haunt them as Zimbabwe capitalized on quick tries. The loss marked a sobering moment, but it was also a testament to the competitiveness of the tournament.

    Despite the setback, Uganda didn’t lose hope. On Day Two, they faced Zambia in the Cup Quarterfinals and emerged with a resounding 29-15 victory. Nobert Okeny, Pius Ogena, and Adrian Kasito were among the heroes of the day. Coach Tolbert Onyango acknowledged the challenges they had faced but saw an opportunity to play their best rugby and pursue Olympic qualification.

    In the Cup Semifinals, Uganda faced an undefeated South African squad. The match was a closely contested battle, with Uganda holding their own for most of it. However, they eventually suffered a 26-14 defeat. Despite the loss, Uganda’s journey didn’t end there. The tournament offered the chance to secure tickets to the Olympic Games and the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.

    In the Bronze Medal match, Uganda faced Zimbabwe once again. This time, they came from behind in the first half to secure a 24-12 victory. The win not only earned them a medal but also secured their place in the 7s Challenger Series in 2024. It was a moment of redemption and a testament to the team’s resilience.

    As Uganda’s rugby team heads home, they do so with heads held high. Their journey in the Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens 2023 was filled with ups and downs, but it showcased their determination, talent, and potential. The lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the opportunities seized will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors. Uganda’s triumph in this tournament may be measured in medals, but its significance goes far beyond the podium, resonating as an inspiring chapter in the nation’s sporting history.

    ColorRun
    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    Editor
    • Website

    Related Posts

    Brazil Pushes for 2029 Club World Cup Hosting Deal

    June 21, 2025

    FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Ignites Worldwide Fandom on the Road to 1.5 Million Tickets

    June 18, 2025

    FIFA President Says New Club World Cup Is a Historic Moment

    June 14, 2025

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Editors Picks
    Latest Posts

    Subscribe to News

    Get the latest news right to your inbox

    Advertisement
    Kakira

    BUSOGAtoday, hosted on www.busogatoiday.com is published by the BusogaToday Media & Publications Ltd, and aims to establish it as a community media platform that combines both legacy and modern digital media tools to deliver.

    Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube LinkedIn

    Subscribe to our newsletter

    Get the latest news right in your inbox.

    © 2025 All rights reserved by Busoga Today. Designed by John Ssenkeezi.

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.