Cranes'' midfield prowess to be tested
May 17, 2014
CRANES’ match-winning prospects in Madagascar today will largely depend on whether Geoffrey Kizito can step forward with immeasurable success
By Fred Kaweesi
African Cup of Nations Qualifier
Madagascar v Uganda 3pm
CRANES’ match-winning prospects in Madagascar will largely depend on whether Geoffrey Kizito can step forward with immeasurable success.
The Madagascar team have one objective every time they’ve stepped onto a football pitch –possess the ball as they probe for scoring opportunities.
But studies have also shown that they lose the ball more often than not while pressing upfront and their back-four has previously been caught out with long passes so easily playing a high-line.
Long passes might not be as exciting for the modern fan but Cranes might have to deploy that on Sunday as Madagascar’s back-four seem to struggle especially if the balls are played into the penalty area.
This is where Kizito’s role will be extremely crucial in the three-man midfi eld that will also include Hassan Wasswa and Khalid Aucho.
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Okwi will lead search for goals.
Naturally, Wasswa will be expected to shield the back-four while Kizito and Aucho will be allowed to join the three attacking players.
Kizito’s presence in particular will be vital fopr various reasons. He reads the game well, and keeps possession superbly.
His range and accuracy of passing allows Cranes’ myriad attacking talents to flourish against sides that risk playing the high-line.
Micho has worked out a system that will enable Cranes operate effi ciently on the Island irrespective of the unpredictable weather.
The Madagascar climate is hot and sub-tropical, it is colder in the mountains, while the south and west regions are particularly dry.
“We have worked on all aspects of our game plan. The attitude is good and I believe with the homework we have done, we should be able to get a good result,” Micho pointed early in the week.
Team to Madagascar: H. Muwonge, P. Watenga, D. Iguma, J. Ochaya, I. Isinde, A. Mwesigwa, S. Kabugo, H. Kalungi, I. Ntege, H. Wasswa, G. Kizito, K. Aucho, M. Mutumba, B. Majwega, D. Sserunkuuma, E. Okwi, H. Kiiza, F. Olaki.