Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso has admitted his side “buckled under pressure” during a humbling 3-0 defeat to Algeria in the opening Group C match of the CHAN 2024.
The Cranes were outclassed in front of their home fans, revealing what the coach described as both “mental and tactical shortcomings” in a performance that left them with a significant uphill battle.
The Cranes’ defense crumbled early, with Ayoub Ghezala scoring from a set-piece. Subsequent goals from Abderrahmane Meziane and Soufiane Bayazid compounded Uganda’s misery as they struggled to cope with Algeria’s sharp attacking play and compact structure.
Despite a few promising moves, Uganda failed to convert their chances or match their opponent’s technical discipline.
“We came in to give our best, but we failed in our defensive block and paid the price,” Byekwaso said after the final whistle. “The team was anxious. We couldn’t launch transitions, and the pressure was a decisive factor in the loss.”
The coach further admitted that the team “collapsed emotionally” after conceding the first goal, losing the ball cheaply and failing to manage the game effectively.
He acknowledged glaring issues, particularly in transition, aerial duels, and midfield control, stating that despite having a tall squad, they lost most headers and struggled to retain possession.
“The midfield lacked control, and we were too stretched. We need to tighten up and keep things simple,” he explained.
Despite the comprehensive defeat, Byekwaso insists the tournament is not over for his side. With two group games still to play, he believes qualification is still possible, but only if they can quickly correct their flaws.
“We’ll talk to the players. We need more control of the game and must strengthen the midfield. We still have two matches to show our real character,” he said, hoping to galvanize his squad for a critical turnaround.
While Algeria enjoys the comfort of an early three points, Uganda must now regroup and respond decisively to avoid an early exit from the tournament.
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