Uganda seeks redemption after opening defeat at Handball Africa Cup of Nations
Despite the loss, Lam Anthony Muzayi stood out as Uganda’s top scorer, netting a game-high nine goals.
Kenya Cereals defence stops a Police player during their ECAHF game. PHOTO: Johnson Were
Uganda began its campaign at the Handball Africa Cup of Nations on the wrong foot, suffering a 37–21 defeat to Angola in their opening match.
Despite the loss, Lam Anthony Muzayi stood out as Uganda’s top scorer, netting a game-high nine goals. His efforts, however, were not enough to secure victory for the Nile Kings.
The team now has an opportunity to revive its hopes of qualifying from the group stages as they face Gabon today in their second group fixture. With defending champions Egypt awaiting them in their final group match on Saturday, the clash against Gabon carries immense significance.
Head coach Jimmy Orotin urged his players to remain composed and avoid playing under pressure.
“This is going to be a final for us. I think the boys just need to calm down, contain the pressure, and then execute the plans,” Orotin said.
He added that the technical team had studied Gabon’s performance against Egypt and devised strategies to secure a win.
“We watched them play against Egypt. We have strategised and we are good to go. In our opening game, our attack lacked steam in the beginning of the second half and we didn’t punish the opponents enough in key moments,” Orotin explained.
With lessons learned from their opening defeat, the Nile Kings will be looking to bounce back and keep their qualification hopes alive.