Africa-Press – Uganda. Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso has said his side is determined to bounce back stronger when they face Guinea on Friday in their second match of the CHAN 2024 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
This comes after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Algeria on Monday night, a performance that exposed several weaknesses in the Ugandan side, particularly in midfield control, defensive organisation, and finishing in the final third.
During Monday’s match, Uganda struggled to keep possession, lacked creativity going forward, and allowed Algeria too much space in dangerous areas.
However, speaking during the pre-match press conference on Thursday, Byekwaso said the team had moved on from the defeat and is fully focused on Friday’s challenge.
“We have put the first game behind us. Football has its ups and downs, but what matters is how you respond. The team is motivated, and we’re ready to give everything tomorrow,” Byekwaso stated.
The coach added that key areas where the team underperformed against Algeria had been addressed in training sessions.
“We have addressed the key areas where we fell short, and the boys are in a good place mentally. We believe we can make the country proud again,” he said.
He also made a rallying call to the fans to fill Namboole and support the team in full voice.
“Our supporters mean everything to us. Yes, the first result was disappointing, but we urge fans to return in big numbers. We are still in this fight together and their energy will lift the players. We promise to give them something to cheer about.” Byekwaso said.
Byekwaso confirmed that most of the squad is fit and available, although midfielders Emmanuel Anyama and Marvin Youngman are being monitored ahead of the clash.
Third-choice captain and defender Rogers Torach also spoke to the media, echoing the coach’s optimism and reaffirming the team’s determination to deliver.
“The team is fired up and focused. We know what is at stake and we are not dwelling on the past. Everyone is ready to fight for the badge. We want to make our fans proud and keep our dream alive,” Torach said.
Uganda Cranes’ last encounter with Guinea ended in a 1-0 victory during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a result that still gives the team belief as they head into the crucial tie.
The squad trained on Thursday morning at the Mandela National Stadium training pitch, as final preparations were made for the showdown under the floodlights.
After Friday’s game, Uganda will continue their CHAN 2024 campaign with further group fixtures lined up, including matches against South Africa and Niger.
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