Two left-backs among likely changes for Uganda-Egypt tie

PORT-GENTIL: The return of Murushid Juuko from suspension to take the place of Isaac Isinde in the Uganda Cranes’ line-up is almost confirmed.

Tanzania-based Juuko will play his first competitive game since losing his newly-born triplets last month and partners Hassan Wasswa at the heart of the defence.

Isinde was at fault, giving away the ball then fouling Asamoah Gyan for a penalty, as Uganda lost the Africa Cup of Nations group D opening (1-0) to Ghana.

There are likely to be more changes than just Isinde in defence as Uganda face Egypt hoping to pick up their first points at the biennial tournament.

During training on Thursday evening, coach Micho Sredojevic tried two fullbacks on the left wing.

Kenya-based Godfrey Walusimbi joined Joseph Ochaya on the left wing during the training session and this wasn’t altered throughout.

Micho is likely to be looking for ways to counter the threat posed by AS Roma’s Mohammed Salah who plays on the right flank.

The left-footed Egyptian ace is fond of cutting in from the wing, a challenge similar to what Ochaya faced in Ghana’s Christian Atsu on Tuesday.

Also, Nicholas Wadada played on the right side of defence and could be pushing for a recall at the expense of Denis Guma.

Wadada, more natural than Guma at right back, would bring more attacking impetus to the wing.

You could sense that Micho has already decided to restore midfielder Khalid Aucho following his suspension with Mike Azira making way.

There are also indications of Moses Oloya being preferred to William Luwagga Kizito who was lethargic in the opener.

This would bring the number of changes to four. Also, striker Muhammad Shaban, who came on against Ghana, sat out training with a niggle.

UGANDA CRANES PROBABLE XI vs EGYPT
Denis Onyango, Nicholas Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Hassan Wasswa, Khalid Aucho, Tony Mawejje, Goeffrey ‘Baba’ Kizito, Faruku Miya, Moses Oloya, Geoffrey Massa (captain)