Monday September 9, 2024
Mandela National stadium, Namboole 7pm
After narrowly missing out on victory over South Africa in the opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Uganda will look to pick their first victory when they host Congo at Namboole.
Quickfire goals from Denis Omedi and Rogers Mato put the Cranes in a 2-1 lead over Bafana Bafana on Friday but Thalente Mbatha scored a leveller to ensure share of spoils.
For Congo, they won 1-0 versus South Sudan in their own back yard and thus aim to pick two wins from as matches in the campaign when they take to the pitch.
“The point away to South Africa will count for nothing if we don’t beat Congo at home,” said Paul Put, the Cranes coach who previously handled the Red Devils.
“We shall do all it takes to win at home and the lads are aware of that,” he added.
Team News
Muhammad Shaban missed the draw with South Africa due to injury in training and remains doubtful for the game.
Halid Lwaliwa and Kenneth Ssemakula are all available after missing the Friday clash due to visa issues.
It remains unknown whether Bobosi Byaruhanga is in camp after he was a no show in Pretoria with no official communication by the FA.
Congo’s Morgan Poaty came off with an injury scare 10 minutes into the second half against South Sudan, and the 27-year-old is a doubt for his side’s trip to Kampala.
Should Poaty be deemed unfit to participate, Brunallergene Junior Etou is the favourite to come into the XI for what would be only a second international appearance.
Key Stats:
Uganda has one win in the last five matches – the 1-0 win over Botswana.
Congo has not won successive matches since 2018 and has just two wins in the last six matches – both versus South Sudan.
Probable XIs
Uganda: Watenga (GK), Mugabi, Kayondo, Capradossi, Lwaliwa, Aucho ©, Ssekiganda, Okello, Omedi, Mato, Mukwala
Congo: Ndzila; Etou, Bidounga, Passi, Andzouana; Dembi, Massanga; Bassouamina, Ndockyt, Mboungou; Ganvoula
The post Preview: Cranes target first Afcon 2025 qualifiers victory against Congo appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
