Uganda Hippos hopes to secure a slot into the quarterfinals of the ongoing Total Energies U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) today as they take on Congo Brazzaville at Suez Canal Authority Stadium and the game will kick off at 8 pm.
A victory for the Hippos will automatically send them through to the last eight having attained maximum points in the opening game against Central African Republic.

Coach Jackson Mayanja is aware of what today’s encounter means in the quest to keep the World Cup dream a reality.

“The first game is behind us, and today poses a different challenge for us. We have tried to preach this to the boys and I’m hopeful we will come out victorious,” said coach Mayanja in the pre-match press briefing.

“Winning our first game was important but we believe the second game is equally important for us to stand a chance of progressing to the next level.” coach Mayanja said.

Uganda U20 Hippos/courtesy Photo
Uganda U20 Hippos/Courtesy Photo

Midfielder Titus Ssematimba indicates they know Congo will be tougher than their previous opponent and thus extra efforts must be applied.

“Congo won their first game as we did. Therefore, they are not a pushover for us. We have to work harder and do better than our previous game,” said the team captain.

Uganda won the first group game 2-1 against Central African Republic where skipper Isma Mugulusi and John Paul Dembe score the two goals leading to a win.

However, The Hippos will need to work hard to secure a place in the semifinals for them to qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup.

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