Uganda Cranes coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic is oozing confidence ahead of Africa Cup of Nations Group D opening match aganist Ghana on 17th January 2017 at Stade de Port Gentil stadium in Gabon.
Quite outspoken, Micho says he expects his boys to fight by getting one over Ghana who has top class players as his team makes a comeback at the continential biggest event after a 39 years absence.
“We are back to the Africa Cup of Nations after 39 years. We have no experience but we are full of confidence. Every match is like a final for us. We respect our opponents but we will work hard and try to do our best. It is a test of how far to go and if we want to be among the best in African football we have to prove that,”said Micho.
After casting his eye over the Ghana squad for the clash, Micho says what he thinks about the Ghananians in what it becomes clear Cranes will go on the offensive throughout the match, but in the same breathe suggests that could be the Black Stars downfall.
“Ghana is a team with top class players and they are one of the tournament favorites. Since 2008, they are always in the top four. They were runner-ups two years ago; this proves they are a top team. What I think of them I will share with my players, not to the public,” he added.
Uganda have always had the upper hand when it comes to recent competitive games against Ghana but Micho says he doesn’t want to focus on past results but believes it will be a whole different ball game on Tuesday.
“We will fight for first goal, first point, first win and possible qualification to the next round. The fact that we are the only country from the CECAFA region makes us proud. If we do well, then we have achieved a feat,”he asserts.
Meanwhile,Cranes captain Geofrey Masa was also on hand to to assure the Ugandans that Cranes are not in the tournament to make numbers but to challenge for the tittle.
“We are not here as tourists, we came here for business. We have a purpose and we will start it tomorrow,”said Massa.
“It’s a good feeling to be my team captain after all these years. It’s a motivation to the players and we are all happy and can’t wait for tomorrow. It won’t be easy against Ghana but we know why we are here. We had good results against them recently. Millions of people are waiting for us with happiness and this is our motivation,”he added.
“We have a great coach who always encourages the players. He’s a blessing to Uganda. We have a lot of young players in the team. Playing against Ghana is tough, but we will be up to the mission.
