Byekwaso tactical approach lifts Uganda, Niger searching for answers
Uganda’s CHAN 2024 journey came roaring back to life on Monday night as the Cranes outclassed Niger 2-0 at a packed Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
In a contest where the numbers on paper told one story but the pitch told another, it was the hosts’ tactical discipline — and Allan Okello’s brilliance — that tipped the balance.
Okello was the conductor and the finisher, scoring a 25th-minute opener before turning provider for the second 11 minutes after the restart.
The statistics leaned towards Niger — more possession, more passes, and better accuracy — but the scoreboard reflected a Ugandan side that played with ruthless purpose.
Uganda’s Tactical Shift Pays Off
The win came after a bruising start to the tournament, where Uganda were humbled 3-0 in their opener.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso revealed that the turnaround was built on defensive organisation and mental resilience.
“We are extremely happy to have won our second match. We started the tournament with a 3-0 defeat, but we didn’t lose focus.
"We strengthened our defence, motivated our captains and gave our playmakers freedom. In a tournament, defending well and conceding no goals is crucial, because chances will come — and when you take them, you get results.”
Byekwaso’s approach stifled Niger’s attack and allowed his creative players space to thrive — none more so than Okello, whose movement and precision were constant threats.
Eyes on South Africa
With South Africa next in the group, Byekwaso is already looking ahead.
"We know they are very effective in the final third. We must be smart and careful, because they know our strengths and weaknesses. After that first defeat, we know how painful it is to lose — and we want to avoid that feeling again.”
That clash could define Uganda’s tournament, with qualification hopes now firmly within reach.
Niger’s Frustration Grows
For Niger, the defeat extended a worrying trend — no goals in two matches. Head coach Harouna Doula Gabde was candid in his assessment.
“In the two games we’ve played so far, we’ve lacked the offensive arguments to truly trouble our opponents, Doula said.
"Today, their first goal made their job easier. I’d like to review the footage to confirm the penalty decision. In attack, we lacked the ability to handle the physical impact of their defence.
Yet he insisted there was still fight left in his side.
“We need to regroup for the two remaining matches, against South Africa and Algeria.
"We must improve our finishing while keeping our defensive solidity. I don’t think we lacked physical presence, but we did lack efficiency in the final third.”
Qualification Race Heats Up
With this win, Uganda moved into a strong position to challenge for a knockout berth.
For Niger, the road ahead is far steeper, and unless their attack clicks soon, their CHAN 2024 journey may end early.
