Uganda U20 Men’s National Team, the Uganda Hippos have made their intentions clear at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana.
Remarkable performances in the group stage that saw Uganda defeat Nigeria, Senegal and South Sudan all point to one thing and that is, emerging winners.
From onset, the target for coach Morley Byekwaso and his charges has been one and that is to go as far as then reach.
The next hurdle in quest for their target is Congo who they face in today’s semifinal at Accra Sports Stadium.
Byekwaso is not underestimating Congo and believes such knockout games are always tough.
“We have reached a stage which is very complicated whereby you have no point of return. Congo is a very good side because you cannot underestimate a team that has reached this level,” he stated in a pre match press briefing.
“We have tried to analyze them, looked at some videos and also watched them play on the pitch. We believe we have made good preparations to enable us get a good result from them.” He added.
Asked if he will alternate in the way his team has been playing in the group stages, Byekwaso was quick to suggest that there is no need to change a winning formula.
“We do not have to change the way we have been playing in the group stage. I believe the players are comfortable the way we have been playing and we hope if they execute the plan, we will overcome Congo.”
Midfielder Allan Oyirwoth is optimistic they have what it takes to defeat Congo and progress to the final.
“It is not an easy game because it is a semifinal contest and every wants to go that extra mile to reach the final. As players, we are ready and willing to put in our best efforts to make sure we reach the final.” Said Oyirwoth.
The best performance for Uganda in football at the African Games came in 1999 when the team reached the semifinals.
Today, the Uganda Hippos have a chance to write history if they edge Congo and reach the final.
The other semifinal will see hosts Ghana who topped group A take on Senegal.
