Uganda Cranes playmaker Allan Okello talking exclusively to Footy-Uganda has underlined that the team is ready to rise to the occasion when they face South Africa in Monday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) clash.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s training session at the FUFA Stadium in Kadiba, the Vipers SC midfielder stressed that the Cranes have prepared with purpose and belief.
“We know what is at stake. CHAN is a big stage for us to show that Ugandan football is growing. South Africa is a strong side, but we believe in our ability and the work we’ve put in,” Okello said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Uganda.
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Okello underlined the importance of maintaining focus and discipline throughout the encounter. Victory will ensure Uganda makes it out of the group stages for the first time in history.
“They have quality players who can punish you if you switch off. Our job is to control the game, use our chances, and make sure we give our fans something to smile about,” he added.
“The brotherhood here is special. We fight for each other, and we know the fans are behind us. That gives us extra motivation to push even harder.”
In the tournament on home soil, Uganda have managed two victories over Guinea (3-0) and Niger (2-0). However, they suffered a 3-0 defeat to Algeria in the opener. Currently, after three games, they sit top with six points in Group C.