No fear for Uganda in knockout
Uganda Cranes players during training on July 4, 2019 in preparation for their AFCON last 16 match against Senegal in Cairo on July 5, 2019.
What you need to know:
- During the presser, Onyango used the chance to talk about the problems in the camp and said they are now solved and focused
Fortebet Odds
UGANDA - SENEGAL
7.40 3.40 1.64
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CAIRO. Uganda Cranes are at a stage where they can take on any team regardless of its status, says national team Sebastien Desabre.
The French-born coach was speaking at a press conference yesterday ahead of the last 16 clash with the Senegal’s Lions of Teranga tonight.
“Senegal is a strong team,” said Desabre, “Over the past year they have played in the World Cup (Russia) and have a good coach but once we enter the pitch, we shall be equal.”
Desabre sat next to his captain Denis Onyango. The two were meeting the press for the first time since the players boycotted training on Tuesday. “We played DR Congo and Egypt, which were equally strong and good teams. We managed to hold our own,” added the Frenchman.
“To beat Senegal we have to score and stay focused. We need to forget the group games, this is a new challenge.” On the weakness of the Lions of Teranga, and how he will plan for the match (today), Desabre said he respects Senegal he doesn’t want to talk about their weaknesses.
“It’s not good to talk about other teams but we know how we are going to approach the match.” Onyango used the opportunity to talk about the problems in the camp and said they are now solved and focused on the game.
“That’s why we are here - to play the game,” said Onyango, “The team is focused, otherwise would have packed our bags and gone back to Kampala.
“The most important thing is the game ahead of us.” Onyango also declared himself fit if given the nod by the coach.
“We went for training yesterday (Wednesday) and opened up the engines ready for Friday. What happened before is gone and we are just focusing on the game to see how far we can go.”
Lions of Teranga 200% fit
Senegal coach Aliou Cisse said he respects Cranes. “We have played them before. It is a strong team and have great capabilities especially in the defence.”
Cisse, who captained Senegal in 2002 World Cup, said; “They have changed coaches but remain a good team.” Midfield dynamo Idrissa Gana Gueye, pumped up the volume.
“We are not only 100%,” he said, “We are 200%,” the Everton player said.
He added: “Not to achieve success is not a decision. We have all what it is takes to win the tournament.” Senegal, despite their talent, have not won the Africa title. They lost the 2002 final.
