For his short dread-locked hair, Uganda Hippos’ forward Bruno Junior Bunyaga has been easily recognized.
The hair style alone, Bunyaga’s unquestionable work ethic on the field of play at the on-going 13th African Games in Accra city, Ghana had already won souls and hearts of many.
Ironically, with a suspect first touch, Bunyaga lured as many neutralists for his never-say-never attitude despite not feasting on the forwards’ staple food, goals in all the three group stage matches (against Nigeria, Senegal and South Sudan).
He started the games against Nigeria and Senegal before he was introduced at the onset of the second half during the South Sudan contest.
As feat would dictate, Bunyaga suitably rose to the occasion with two goals to his name in the semi-final 4-2 win over Congo at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday night.
“It is reliving and exciting to score as I open up my goal accounts” the URA football club forward pointed.
“I remained hard-working and had the belief that I would score. Scoring two goals in the semi-finals is a pleasure” the former St Lawrence University, Buddu Ssaza and Bushenyi Veterans player added.
Amour Servyl Akouala and Mignon Koto scored in the opening stanza to give Congo a 2-0 lead by the mandatory half way mark.
Uganda Hippos swiftly recovered in the second half to score through Bunyaga (two goals), sweet left footer Abasi Kyeyune and the dribbling ace Hakim Mutebi.
In the second match on the day, hosts Ghana smiled 1-0 past fellow West Africans Senegal.
Michael Ephson scored the all-important goal of the game with six minutes left on the clock.
Therefore, the final will be between Uganda and Ghana to determine who takes gold and silver.
The bronze medal match will be between Congo and Senegal.
