CHAN 2024: Peppered by Algeria, Uganda Must Now Rise Against Guinea
Uganda’s Cranes suffered a crushing 3–0 defeat to Algeria in their opening CHAN 2024 match, becoming the first of the three co-hosts to lose in the tournament. The match, played at the newly refurbished Namboole Stadium, saw the visitors dominate in pace, structure, and finishing.
Shaky Start at Home
Hopes had been high among the home crowd as Uganda kicked off their campaign on home soil. But the Cranes were quickly overwhelmed by Algeria's clinical offense. Goals from the North African side came in quick succession, leaving Uganda little room to regroup.
Uganda’s defense looked unsettled under pressure, and the midfield struggled to create rhythm or penetrate Algeria’s organized backline.
Pressure Mounts Ahead of Guinea Clash
Following the loss, the focus now shifts to Uganda’s second group match against Guinea. The stakes couldn’t be higher—another defeat could end the Cranes’ hopes of advancing to the knockout stage.
Coach Morley Byekwaso acknowledged the challenge: “We didn’t perform the way we trained. We must correct our mistakes and prepare for Guinea. There’s no time to feel sorry for ourselves.”
Fans Demand Response
With Uganda being one of the co-hosts, expectations are high both from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and the public. Social media reactions have been swift, with fans urging the team to rise to the occasion in the next fixture.
Veteran midfielder Muzamir Mutyaba emphasized unity in the squad: “We have to regroup quickly. This isn’t over—we play for pride, and the next game is a chance to put things right.”
Guinea Fixture Becomes Do-or-Die
The Cranes now face Guinea in a must-win scenario. Guinea, known for their sharp transitions and fluid play, present a formidable test.
Kickoff for the Uganda vs Guinea clash is set for later this week at the same venue.
With the pressure building and the eyes of a football-loving nation watching, Uganda must find the resilience and tactical edge to turn their CHAN 2024 campaign around.