Africa-Press – Uganda. It will be all systems go for KCCA as they take on AS Kigali in the delicately poised Caf Confederation Cup first leg tie this afternoon at an empty Nyamirambo Stadium in Rwanda.Rather than lament over the absence of manager Mike Mutebi and several key first team players; KCCA assistant manager Morley Byekwaso has preached positivity and hope.“We are so prepared as usual. We want to see that we represent our club and our country very well,” stated Byekwaso, a club legend and former Uganda Cranes midfielder.
Focused and determined
“All the boys are determined, they are focused and the boys really want to make a difference in Wednesday’s (today) game,” Byekwaso stated.With a deplorable away record in Caf engagements, it is saddening to report that none of their recognised three goalkeepers; captain Charles Lukwago, Ali Mwirusi and Hassan Matovu is in Kigali.
KCCA will also do without Denis Iguma, Samson Kigozi, Brian Aheebwa, Hassan Musana, Kezironi Kizito and Stefano Mazengo – all nursing Covid-19.Anukani’s moment to shinePeter Magambo, Herbert Achai and Samuel Kato that aided KCCA to their second Cecafa Club Cup in Rwanda last year have been lined up to cover the huge void.
That said, newly acquired attacking midfielder Bright Anukani, who put Kigali to the sword while playing for Proline last year, will be KCCA’s go-to man today. Endowed with an enviable ability to score and create goals, Anukani is expected to relentlessy feed forwards Steven Sserwada, Sam Ssenyonjo and Juma Balinya with assists. Byekwaso will be hoping that the limited game time, this season thus far, doesn’t catch up with the youthful midfielder.
Kigali ready to pounce
“I have warned my players not to be complacent thinking our opponents are weakened by the many absent players. We must keep the same focus and make sure we win by scoring a couple of goals,” AS Kigali coach Eric Nshimiyimana told The New Times.
The 45-year-old hinted on winning with a big margin ahead of the January 5 return leg at St Mary’s Stadium-Kitende. “We have to make good use of home advantage if this team is to progress.”
CONFEDERATION CUP
PReliminary ROUNDToday, 4pmKigali vs. KCCAStade Régional de NyamiramboReturn leg – January 5KCCA vs. AS KigaliSt Mary’s Stadium-Kitende
