Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso is urging his facet to rise from the frustration of their opening defeat as they put together for a must-win conflict towards Guinea within the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Friday evening at Mandela Nationwide Stadium, Namboole.

The Cranes suffered a heavy 3-0 loss to Algeria of their Group C opener, a consequence that left followers pissed off and the group beneath strain. However with qualification nonetheless attainable, Byekwaso believes the response should come now — and it should be robust.

“We’re beneath strain, that’s the reality,” Byekwaso mentioned.

“However strain brings out character. We’ve labored onerous since that loss, and that is our second to reply.”

The Algeria consequence noticed many followers exit the stadium early. Byekwaso understands the frustration however made a passionate attraction for renewed help.

“We want our followers now greater than ever,” he mentioned. “We’re not giving up. This group nonetheless has spirit, nonetheless has starvation. We ask our folks to consider once more.”

Uganda might be up towards a Guinea facet stuffed with confidence after a 1-0 win over Niger. Whereas the Cranes defeated Guinea in World Cup qualifying final yr, Byekwaso isn’t relying on historical past.

“That was a distinct day, a distinct sport,” he famous. “Just a few gamers stay from that match. It is a new problem — and we should earn all the things.”

With Group C finely poised, the Cranes should win to remain in rivalry. Defender and stand-in captain Rogers Torach says the gamers are totally conscious of the duty forward.

“We’ve put Algeria behind us,” Torach mentioned. “Now it’s about satisfaction and objective. The group is united. We all know what’s on the road — and we’re able to combat.”

Victory would reignite Uganda’s CHAN marketing campaign, whereas a loss would all however finish their hopes of advancing.

“We’ve had sincere conversations as a bunch,” Byekwaso added. “No excuses. It’s time to indicate who we’re. This isn’t over.”