‘Pressure caused Cranes crumbles to Algeria’
UGANDA: UGANDA Cranes Head Coach Morley Byekwaso has admitted his side wilted under pressure after suffering a disheartening 3–0 defeat to Algeria in their opening Group C clash at the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 tournament.
In front of a home crowd full of hope and anticipation, the Cranes were outplayed from the first whistle, conceding three goals and struggling to match Algeria’s sharp attacking intent and tactical discipline.
“It was a tough result to take,” Byekwaso confessed post-match. “We came in determined to give our best, but we failed in our defensive block—and paid the price.”
Uganda’s defensive shape unraveled early, with Ayoub Ghezala opening the scoring from a well-executed set-piece. Algeria continued to press their advantage with clinical finishes from Abderrahmane Meziane and Soufiane Bayazid, silencing the home fans and leaving the Cranes with a mountain to climb.
“We were too anxious,” Byekwaso explained. “We couldn’t launch our transitions effectively, and the pressure became overwhelming. After the first goal, we collapsed emotionally.”
Despite a few glimpses of promise in attack, Uganda lacked composure and precision in the final third, failing to convert their chances or break down Algeria’s compact structure.
Byekwaso pointed to both tactical and mental shortcomings: “We lost the ball cheaply, missed key chances, and struggled to manage the tempo. The midfield was too stretched and lacked control. We must get back to basics—stay compact, tighten our lines, and keep things simple.”
Height was expected to be an advantage for Uganda, but the team lost most aerial duels and struggled to retain possession under pressure—an area the coach believes needs urgent fixing.
“Despite having a physically strong squad, we were second-best in aerial contests. That’s unacceptable at this level,” he noted. “The midfield must take more responsibility in controlling the rhythm of the game.”
However, the Coach remains hopeful. With two group stage matches still to play, Byekwaso believes the Cranes can bounce back—if they learn fast and correct course.
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“This is not the end,” he stressed. “We have talented players. Now it’s about recovering mentally, owning our mistakes, and showing our true character. We’ll speak to the players, regroup, and fight back.”
Uganda now faces a mustwin second match as they look to keep their CHAN 2024 hopes alive. Meanwhile, Algeria enjoys a flying start and sits comfortably atop the group atop the group with three points in the bag.
