Uganda U-17 captain Owen Mukisa and head coach Laryea Kingston have expressed confidence and focus as the Cubs prepare for today’s CECAFA U-17 AFCON Zonal Qualifiers semifinal against hosts Ethiopia at 3:00PM.
Mukisa reaffirmed the team’s determination to reach the final and continue Uganda’s strong record at this level. He described the moment as a privilege for the players and thanked the supporters for their encouragement.
Among his remarks after training, Mukisa said ‘It is a great honour that we managed to reach the semifinals and I want to thank the Almighty.’ He added that despite facing the hosts, the team remains confident, saying ‘The players are in good condition and I promise you that we are going to win them.’
Mukisa emphasised the team’s target of securing qualification for the AFCON finals. He said ‘It is our target as a country to reach the finals because we want to qualify for the AFCON. That is our target as the players.’ He also acknowledged the impact of the fans, noting ‘It is a privilege to see our fellow Ugandans supporting us because that helps us double our effort.’
He concluded with a strong pledge of belief in the team’s ability to defend their title, stating ‘As we did last year, we are going to defend the triple. We are here in Ethiopia. We are going to do it again.’
Head coach Laryea Kingston praised the quality of the competition and reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to its playing philosophy. He applauded the energy and character within his squad, highlighting their readiness for the challenge.
Kingston said ‘The qualification is the main priority for us.’ He expressed confidence in the team after their final training session, noting ‘Looking at my team, the energy they are bringing on board is impressive. If they put in 50% of what they have done so far, I think we are going to carry the game.’
He reiterated Uganda’s attacking identity, stating ‘Our style is to attack the opponent, dominate play, and tomorrow is not going to be any different.’ Kingston also stressed the developmental aspect of the programme, saying ‘Winning is important and qualification is important, but the main focus for us is to see our boys developing well and doing the right things on the field.’
Despite Ethiopia’s home support, Kingston remained unfazed and concluded that once the match starts, ‘It is only eleven on the pitch.’
The Cubs enter today’s semifinal with belief, momentum and a clear mission: to qualify for the AFCON finals and extend Uganda’s proud record in the region.
