Uganda Cranes eye crucial CHAN victory against Niger in do-or-die clash
A victory for the Cranes would significantly boost their chances of progressing from the group without relying on complex permutations.
Coach Paul Put giving instructions to Cranes Players in a training session at Namboole. PHOTO: Johnson Were
By Johnson Were
Journalists @New Vision
The CHAN Group C showdown between Uganda and Niger, set for 8 PM on Monday, August 1, 2025, at Mandela National Stadium, is a must-win for both sides as they chase knockout qualification.
A victory for the Cranes would significantly boost their chances of progressing from the group without relying on complex permutations. Defender Gavin Mugweri Kizito has assured fans that the team is fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
“We’re not focusing on Niger’s previous defeat. We also lost our first game, but we’ve stuck to our game plan and we’re going all out for the win,” said Kizito.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso echoed the sentiment with even greater urgency.
Gavin Mugweri Kizito at the press conference. PHOTOS: Johnson Were
“We want this win more than we wanted the one against Guinea. We’re going all out,” he declared.
Byekwaso emphasized the importance of maintaining defensive discipline, warning against early goals that could destabilize the team. He also confirmed that striker Ivan Ahimbisibwe will start on the bench to strengthen the squad’s depth and tactical flexibility.
“All 90 minutes matter in football. We need a strong bench,” he noted.
The coach revealed that all previously injured players, including Emmanuel Anyama, have recovered and will be available for selection.
“Our camp is geared up and ready. It’s going to be a tough match, but we must dig deep and fight for wins in all our remaining fixtures,” Byekwaso added.
Uganda faces Niger today and will wrap up their group campaign against South Africa in the five-team pool. Byekwaso acknowledged that the opening 3–0 loss to Algeria dented their qualification hopes, but the emphatic 3–0 win over Guinea reignited belief within the squad.
“The loss to Algeria hurt us, but their draw with South Africa opened the door again. It’s now up to our players to seize the moment—step onto the pitch with hunger and fight for wins against Niger and South Africa,” he said.
Both Kizito and Byekwaso praised the fans for their unwavering support and urged them to turn up in full voice for today’s decisive encounter.
South Africa opens today's group C matches with South Africa taking on Guinea.