Uganda skipper Godfrey Massa has sounded a warning to Ghana hours to their group “D” opener in Port Gentil – stressing that they are in Gabon for “business.”
Massa, 30, is not bothered by the fact that he has not scored for the Cranes in almost a year, instead he is focusing on the much anticipated clash – confident that he played a role in the qualification.
“Yes it’s almost a year since I scored for the country, but don’t forget the fact that one of my goals is the reason we are here.
“Since we came to Dubai we have been working hard, and I know the reason we are here; we are here for business,” the Baroka FC forward said yesterday.
Uganda camped in Tunisia and Dubai, where they played high profile build-up matches against the Carthage Eagles, Ivory Coast and Slovakia.
He added, “Tomorrow (Today) is a big game and we have to continue focusing and working hard.”
Massa’s confidence is justifiable, as they hold a better record against the Black Stars in the last three outings.
In the matches, the Coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojovic has managed two draws and a win.
His opposite number Asamoah Gyan is banking on their vast experience in the continental showpiece, and quality within their ranks to carry them through.
While Uganda are returning to the AFCON after a 39-year absence, Ghana have been a regular – going past the quarters on many occasions.
They boast a galaxy of stars playing their trade with top European clubs, including the Ayew brothers, Andrew and Jonathan, who are capable of determining the outcome of a game with their superb natural talents.
“A win will bring our confidence back because we have had tough preparations, and we have worked hard.
“We are playing against a difficult side, a side that we have been struggling against for all these years, and I think experience is going to count much, and we are hoping to win. It’s not going to be easy but with the quality we have in camp we are capable of winning,” Gyan, the all-time Ghana’s top scorer (48 goals) said.
Ghana also camped in Dubai ahead of the 31st edition of the AFCON,but due to some logistical hiccups, they could not land to friendlies.
The match will kick-off 7PM local time and will be followed closely by another group “D” encounter pitting Egypt against Mali.
