Last host standing: Can Uganda salvage East African CHAN pride?
Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso is balancing confidence with caution as his team prepares to face defending champions Senegal in the CHAN quarterfinals at Namboole today.
Byekwaso acknowledged the challenge posed by the West African team but insisted his players are emotionally and physically ready.
“We are playing a well-organized team that has been in the tournament for a long time,” he told reporters at a pre-match press conference.
“We have played them in friendlies, and we know their strengths. The Senegalese are very physical, but every team has weaknesses. This is no longer the group stage; mistakes at this level can cost us dearly. The boys are well-prepared both physically and emotionally, so we are good to go.”
The coach stressed that discipline and composure will be key, adding that minimizing mistakes and capitalizing on the home advantage could make the difference.
“We must be disciplined as we are facing a disciplined team,” he said.
“We will focus on minimizing mistakes and forcing them into errors. That is how we will create scoring opportunities.”
Byekwaso made a passionate appeal for supporters to turn up in large numbers to create the atmosphere that has driven the team so far.
“Our fans have been incredible, pushing the team until the last whistle. We call upon them once again to rally behind us. Together, we can achieve great things.”
His call was echoed by midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is returning from a suspension after missing the final group stage game against South Africa. Sserunjogi spoke of the team’s unity and promised total commitment.
“Everyone is happy and focused,” he said. “We have learned from the group stage that we must never give up. It is an honour to represent the country, and I will give my all. I thank our fans for standing by us, and I call upon them to come in big numbers. We will not disappoint. We want to win.”
Meanwhile, tickets for the historic clash sold out within hours, with many now being sold at inflated prices on the black market. The local Organizing Committee, through its chairman Danis K. Mujimba, has warned fans against falling victim to ticket fraud.
“Fans should not be duped,” Mujimba said, “Any physical ticket being sold anywhere is fake. Even some electronic tickets sold by third parties may look authentic; however, they may in fact be duplicates and will not be allowed inside the gates of the stadium.”
CAF has also stated that fans with counterfeit or duplicate tickets will be denied entry. Security operations, led by the Uganda Police Force, are in place to ensure a safe and secure environment.
Police have warned that individuals who have consumed alcohol or are under the influence of other intoxicating substances will not be allowed into the stadium. With co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania now eliminated, Uganda is the last East African team remaining in the tournament. Fans are eager to see if the Cranes can continue their historic run.
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