Uganda Rhinos set up Japan clash after thrashing Yemen

Uganda Rhinos have set up a Round of 16 meeting with Japan at the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan after thrashing Yemen 5-2 on Wednesday.

The young Ugandans produced another impressive performance, scoring five times through Jefferson Kwikiriza, Angello Kasumba and Ian Wafula to book their place in the knockout stage.

Kwikiriza set the Rhinos on their way with two goals in quick succession, striking in the ninth and 11th minutes to give Uganda an early 2-0 lead.

Angello Kasumba built on his teammate’s work, scoring in the 27th and 31st minutes as Uganda took firm control of the contest.

Ian Wafula then added the fifth in the 37th minute, capping a dominant first-half display that left Yemen trailing 5-0.

Yemen pulled two goals back, but the damage was already done. Uganda held on comfortably to secure another victory and confirm their place in the last 16.

The result continues the Rhinos’ impressive response to their opening-day disappointment, when they lost 4-3 to the Kyrgyz Republic.

Rather than allow that defeat to derail their campaign, Uganda bounced back in style, beating Equatorial Guinea 6-0 before overcoming Cabo Verde 5-1. Wednesday’s victory over Yemen extended that strong run and gave the team further confidence heading into the knockout rounds.

Japan are next in line, with the two sides scheduled to meet later today for a place in the quarter-finals.

The Japanese also had to work for their place in the last 16, edging Mozambique 1-0 in their Round of 32 encounter.

For Uganda, the challenge will be to carry their attacking form into a match where a place in the last eight is at stake. Their five goals against Yemen will offer encouragement, although Japan are expected to provide a different test.

Should the Rhinos win, they will advance to the quarter-finals, where they are likely to face either Chile or Belarus. The two nations meet in the corresponding Round of 16 tie, with the winner progressing to the last eight.

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