Ahead of their long awaited double header against Burkina Faso in the 2017 AFCON qualifiers in Group D where Uganda leads with maximum points from a couple of games, Uganda Cranes defender Isaac Isinde hopes March 2016 turns out to be a special and memorable month for Ugandans who are seeking to qualify for Africa’s preeminent competition for the first time in 38 years.
The qualification has time and again eluded the Cranes and have missed it by a whisker a number of times including that heartbreaking barren draw against fierce rivals Kenya in 2011 where Uganda only needed three points to qualify .
“We have March to seal qualification. It’s the only time we have to secure the 6 points. We need to avoid defeat and fight for victory in March for us to call it a done deal”
Uganda Cranes recent meetings with the Stallions have produced mixed results. The Cranes have lost once, drawn twice and won one in their last four encounters with the Burkinabes.
However, in Burkina Faso, Micho’s charges come up against 2013 AFCON finalists. With the tournament experience playing to the host’s favour, the tie in Stade du 4 Aout Ouagadougou is obviously expected to be arduous but the former Victors defender who currently plies his trade in Ethiopia is positive the team is in a good state of mind to stand the test.
“The spirit in the team is unbelievable. There’s love and support for each and we’re all fighting for one goal which is qualification. What man has done, Man can do. We’re blessed with quality players and a quality coach so we can’t accept losing a game. This is a must for us. personally , I’d be the happiest man if we qualify”.
The Cranes are yet to concede a goal in the group stages. A 0-1 victory away at Comoros and a 2-0 win at home ensured two clean sheets. This according to St George defender is a result of “team work and determination”
“Our defensive brilliance has been down to team work and determination. It’s not only defenders but we defend as a team” he said.
Uganda achieved its highest ever FIFA ranking in January (62) with 553 points and although that dropped 8 places down to 70 in February, Isinde just like any other Ugandan says it’s good for the country and hence a great achievement.
“It definitely improves on the brand of the nation. it puts our country on a different footballing map and its we the players who gain from this, but it all comes down to hard work”
The Cranes play Burkina Faso on Saturday 26th March and the return leg 3 days later.
