The national under 17 football team the Ocean Stars united a country as it made history in playing in a major regional championship after thirty years despite a 2-0 lose to Tanzania.
The match played at the Getenge Stadium had been halted due to heavy rains and the pitch was waterlogged through out the 90 minutes.
A goal by Somalia was disallowed in the second half and Tanzania went on to score to goals.
The Ocean Stars players showed a spirited flight that they had earlier exhibited to sail through to the finals.
“Our youngsters were not accustomed playing in the rain but they demonstrated very good game” Mahdi Guled the Somalia Deputy Prime Minister said at the end of the match in Bujumbura.
“This shows that we are recovering. We have adopted policies to encourage the youth and improve their lives and encourage them to focus on the continental championships and World Cup” Guled said.
Somalia had beaten Kenya 1-0, Uganda 1-0 and beaten by Ethiopia 3-1 in game that was awarded to the Ocean Stars after the Ethiopian side sided over-aged players.
Somalia nationals from across the world led by President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo followed the match keenly as history unfolded.
“Bring the cup home boys ” Farmaajo had earlier called the team to encourage them ahead of the match.
“A terrific performance and a great advertisement for the country´s youth, skill and determination” Michael Keating the UN Special Representatives of then Secretary-General for Somalia tweeted.
Somalia´golden boy Fahad Ahmed scored 2 goals in the tournament and showcased his skills in the finals with several shots on target.
