Uganda goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa has urged his teammates to quickly put aside the latest TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) victory against Niger and concentrate on the crucial final Group C encounter against South Africa.
The Cranes moved to the summit of Group C with a composed 2-0 triumph at Nelson Mandela Stadium on Monday night their first-ever back-to-back wins in CHAN history putting them within touching distance of a quarter-final berth.
Allan Okello opened the scoring midway through the first half, moments after seeing his penalty saved, before Joel Sserunjogi doubled the advantage with a clinical finish. Mutakubwa’s outstanding saves preserved the clean sheet and earned him the man of the match accolade.
‘We thank God for this moment. It’s something I’ve worked hard for and, most importantly, for the three points we’ve earned,” Mutakubwa said with visible pride after the match. “Following the loss to Algeria in the first game, we knew every match from then on was like a cup final, and the next one will be no different. South Africa are a strong side, so we have to regroup and prepare well.’
Okello admitted it was a tough battle but praised his side’s readiness.
‘It wasn’t an easy match, but we were prepared and fought for the nation,” the attacking midfielder said. “When I stepped up for the penalty, I was a little nervous, and unfortunately, it didn’t go in. Luckily, the rebound came my way and I made it count. Now our focus shifts fully to the last game against South Africa.’
Sserunjogi, who will miss the South Africa clash through suspension after accumulating two yellow cards, expressed faith in his teammates.
‘Of course I would love to be on the pitch, but I believe in the quality we have. Whoever gets the chance to play in my position will deliver,’ he assured.
Patrick Kakande echoed the team-first mentality.
‘For us, it’s always about the team, not individual performance. Everyone is working for the same goal, and we hope to finish the job against South Africa and qualify,’ he said.
The Cranes will face South Africa in their final group match, knowing a positive result could seal their place in the knockout stages.
