Byekwaso rallies Cranes for Niger after statement win over Guinea
“The focus is now on Niger. They are another good team that we must prepare for as we did against Guinea. We need to win because we need the points to qualify for the knockout stage,” said Byekwaso.
Uganda co-coach Morley Byekwaso stressed that celebrations are now over as focus shifts to Monday’s crucial tie against Niger, another must-win to keep knockout qualification hopes alive. (Courtesy Photo/CAF)
By Yekoyada Saaka
Journalists @New Vision
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African Nations Championship 2024
South Africa v Guinea
Uganda v Niger
Uganda Cranes have the chance to build on their emphatic recovery in the CAF African Nations Championship when they face Niger on Monday, August 11, following Friday’s morale-boosting 3-0 victory over Guinea at Namboole.
The result revived Uganda’s hopes of advancing from Group C after Monday’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Algeria. Against Guinea, Uganda impressed with an aggressive, disciplined performance that silenced critics of head coach Morley Byekwaso.
Goals from Reagan Mpande, Allan Okello (penalty), and Ivan Ahimbisibwe sealed the win, with Okello picking up the man of the match award.
“I want to thank the players for their total commitment against Guinea. They are a good side with technically gifted players who know how to use the ball. But I thank the players for playing according to instructions. We analysed Guinea together after their game against Niger and prepared well. It is a good result and a strong response to our defeat to Algeria,” said Byekwaso.
Algeria top the group with four points, followed by Uganda and Guinea on three each, with Uganda ahead on head-to-head. South Africa have one point, and Niger are yet to collect any.
Byekwaso revealed that President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni had summoned the technical team to State House after the Algeria loss, a meeting that he says motivated Friday’s improved display.
“The focus is now on Niger. They are another good team that we must prepare for as we did against Guinea. We need to win because we need the points to qualify for the knockout stage,” he added.