Namibia target another upset at CHAN

by Graeme Jackson

Tuesday Jan 16, 2018. 13:30

Namibia will target another upset win at the 2018 African Nations Championship when they face Uganda in Marrakech on Thursday evening, kick-off at 21h30 CAT.

Namibia claimed the surprise result of the first round of matches at the CHAN when they defeated Group B rivals Ivory Coast 1-0, with Vetunuavi Hambira netting the decisive goal n injury time at the end of the game.

Uganda, meanwhile, were outplayed by Zambia to the tune of a 1-3 score line. Derrick Nsibambi’s goal was the only consolation for the East Africans, who need a strong result in this match to revive their quarterfinal hopes.

“We have two more games left [in the group stage] and I will try to improve the physical aspect of our play,” said Uganda coach Sebastien Desabre.

“I’m still discovering my players after taking charge 10 days ago. It is always difficult to start with a competition of this magnitude.”

Brave Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti said the win over the Elephants was a monumental one, but they must put it behind them and embrace a new challenge in the shape of Uganda.

“The win means a lot for Namibians, it gives them hope and also shocks them as we have been over the years not tactically organised and now maybe we can finally do it. The expectations keep rising for this team going forward,” said Mannetti.

He added, “We still want to get out of the group and reach the quarterfinals. We now relax a bit and then get back to hard work and plan for Uganda.”

The other Group B match will take place earlier the same day in Marrakech and sees Ivory Coast take on Zambia.