Algeria’s veterans school Uganda’s youngsters
The Uganda Cranes suffered a 3-0 defeat to Algeria in their opening encounter of the CHAN finals at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
This defeat was attributed to several factors, including the incomparable nature of the leagues, player-level differences, and an inexperienced Ugandan team.
It is undeniable that the Algerian team, comprised of players with vast experience, including Uganda’s tormentor Abdelrrahmane Meziane (CR Belouizdad), who has over fifty appearances in both the CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup.
Notably, Meziane had a stint with UAE side Al-Ain FC in 2019, where his market value peaked at €1 million.
The 31-year-old, despite losing a tooth after a knock, assisted Algeria’s first goal and scored their second in the 76th minute.
Other notable players in the Algerian team include JS Kabylie striker Aimen Mahious, whose market value stands at €1.3 million.
Mahious previously played in Switzerland with Yverdon Sport and was the top scorer of the 2022 CHAN edition hosted by Algeria, netting five goals in six matches.
Facing players of such caliber required a team with matching strength, but Uganda fielded debutant defenders Arnold Odong, Rogers Torach, and Gideon Odongo, among others.
Additionally, players like Gavin Kizito were played out of position, as noted by Cranes legend Mujib Kasule.
The midfield battle highlighted the experience gap: Algerian veteran Zakaria Draoui (31), who featured for Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca in 2023, dominated against 23-year-old KCCA FC midfielder Joel Sserunjogi.
Draoui, with over fifty CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup appearances, overshadowed Sserunjogi, who has none.
How the Cranes must adapt to survive the group stage
With debutant forward Emmanuel Anyama sidelined by injury and midfielder Marvin Youngman out with a hamstring issue, Uganda may need to turn to alternatives like veteran forward Yunus Sentamu.
The 30-year-old was introduced in the second half against Algeria but barely touched the ball. Nevertheless, his experience could prove vital against Guinea on Friday.
Vipers SC midfielder Karim Watambala is likely to earn a starting spot after an energetic second-half performance against Algeria.
Though his long-range attempts were either blocked or off target, his ambition injected urgency into Uganda’s play.
His introduction also revitalized captain Allan Okello, who had been subdued by Algeria’s first-half pressure.
Okello’s shift to the flanks improved his ball handling and positioning, enabling him to create threats through deliveries and runs, a tactical adjustment Coach Morley Byekwaso might retain against Guinea.
SC Villa forward Patrick Kakande’s impressive ball control and movement must now translate into tangible results if Uganda hopes to advance.
Defensive errors, however, remain a concern after conceding two goals in three minutes. Vipers SC defender Hillary Mukundane could be poised for a role after watching from the bench.
Fan Perspectives
“Our defense needs to wake up; that corner goal was pure lapse in concentration. And why keep booting long balls when we’ve got the quality to build from the back? Play through the midfield! Plus, start Sentamu up top as a clinical finisher, free-kick threat, and perfect partner for Okello in tight spaces.” Timothy Okurut, Uganda Cranes fan
“Our fullbacks need to attack with purpose. Where are the overlapping runs to support the forwards? Start Watambala for midfield control, and bring Sentamu’s experience earlier! Off the pitch, the stadium organization was impressive, but we are begging for simple upgrades: give us cold drinks and food in the stands!” Michael Ainomugisha, Uganda Cranes fan
Uganda Cranes’ Next Fixtures
- Friday, 8th: Guinea vs. Uganda, 8 pm
- Monday, 11th: Uganda vs. Niger, 8 pm
- Monday, 18th: South Africa vs. Uganda, 8 pm
- (All matches at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole)
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