Kobugabe stuns Africa's top seed to storm badminton semifinals

The electrifying match had the crowd on their feet and for all Mauritian Kune's pedigree, it was Kobugabe's outstanding performance that won the day.

ACCRA-GHANA | Husina Kobugabe stunned Africa’s number one, Kate Foo Kune, in the quarterfinals of the women’s singles at the 13th All-Africa Games in Accra, Ghana.

The electrifying match had the crowd on their feet and for all Mauritian Kune's pedigree, it was Kobugabe's outstanding performance that won the day.

Kobugabe's triumph is a testament to the power of perseverance, demonstrating that resilience pays off even after multiple setbacks. Her exhilaration was palpable as she reflected on her achievement.

"It's a personal record for me, an achievement I've never accomplished before," she said.

"She's been a formidable opponent, an Olympian. This victory means a lot to me and to Uganda. Making it to the semifinals guarantees a medal for Uganda.

"I'm thrilled. Last time, she defeated me easily in Egypt, but this time, I approached the game with more confidence, which helped me perform better."

Kobugabe will face Nigeria's Dorcas Ajoke Adesokan ijn the semifinals. And while her stock shot through the roofs with the stunning victory over Kune, Kobugabe is aware she needs even better mental preparedness for the penultimate match.

"I'm ready for the semifinal. I'll step onto the court with mental toughness, ready to face my opponent," Kobugabe added.

Kobugabe isn’t the sole Ugandan to advance to the semifinals in the women’s badminton. Fadilah Shamika, 18, displayed exceptional skill, defeating Nigeria's Sofiat  Obanishola Arinola to secure a spot in the Women’s Singles semifinal.

The two Ugandan female stars are scheduled to take to court on Sunday, March 10, in their quest for the gold medal match.

Uganda secured not only two semifinal slots in the women’s category but also advanced to the semi-finals of the women’s doubles.

The duo of Gladys Mbabazi and Kobugabe delivered an impressive 2-0 victory over Nigeria's Sofiat Obanishola Arinola and Dorcas Adesokan Ajoke, securing a place in the semifinals.

All the players who won their quarterfinal matches are guaranteed a bronze medal, but their sights are set on winning gold for Uganda.