Uganda Cranes received a rude welcome back to the Africa Cup of Nations following a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Ghana’s Black Stars on Tuesday.
Head Coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic rues some mistakes for the loss but acknowledges the fact that the players are ingenuous at this stage.
“We had what I call stage fright in the first half,” Micho said.
“We committed a mistake that I cannot explain and Ayew scored. I have learnt that this level of competition does not accept silly mistakes like we have done.”
West Ham United striker Andre Ayew buried from the spot just after the half hour. Isaac Isinde had unnecessarily pulled Asamoah Gyan who didn’t hesitate to fall on the ground.
“My team has shown that we have the technical and physical ability but we still have to work more. We came with a mission to prove that we didn’t qualify by accident, and I believe we showed that.”
Tactical changes
Micho employed a defensive system with five sitting at the back, Mawejje and Azira protecting the midfielder as Miya, Luwagga and Massa provided attacking options.
He was forced to withdraw Luwagga for Shaban.
Later on, Sserunkuma and Oloya joined to make five strikers up front but the changes were fruitless.
“At halftime, we needed to awaken the players so that they believe we can play in tournaments like this. We made a risk at the latter stages playing 3-2-5 but it didn’t work. I am not satisfied with our finishing.”
The Cranes return to action on Saturday against Egypt with Khalid Aucho and Murshid Jjuko, who were on suspension, expected back in action.