Uganda Cranes look to bounce back from the defeat in Algiers
The Uganda Cranes welcome Niger at St. Mary’s Kitende this afternoon for the second AFCON23 qualification game.
The Cranes suffered a 2-0 defeat in Algiers on Saturday against Algeria.
Both teams go into match day two without wins in their opening games. Niger drew 1-1 against Tanzania on home turf.
Uganda has now lost four of the last seven outings since the beginning of the year and will need to start up today’s game on a high gear.
Milutin Sredojevic’s men need a win to keep their spirits of qualification alive.
The Cranes have an advantage over their opposition basing on recent stats.
Niger is still winless this year, the Menas closed 2021 with a triumph against Djibouti 7-2.
More worry for the visitors is that they have only won two of their last twelve games on road.
Uganda will much need services of Farouk Miya who had a poor game in Algiers. Skipper Emmanuel Okwi might get his 90th appearance if selected.
Niger’s Daniel Sosah has scored two goals in his last three appearances, a star player to watch.
Uganda won 1-0 in 2008 when these teams met at Nelson Mandela National Stadium – FIFA World Cup 2010 Qualification. Niger went ahead to win the away fixture 3-1.
Uganda Cranes expect an improved performance from their last fixture in Algiers.
Uganda possible starting lineup:
Lukwago – Muleme, Lwaliwa, Mugabi, Kizito – Youngman, Aucho, Karisa – Okwi, Miya, Okello
Niger possible starting lineup: Van Attenhoven – Alhassane, Diabate, Karim, Garba – Oumarou, Soumana – Wonkoye, Moutari, Adebayor – Sosah