Geoffrey Massa hits back at journalist

Jan 17, 2017

Micho said he wants to make Uganda one of the top ten countries in African football.

Uganda's national football team captain Geofrey Massa attends a press conference at Port-Gentil Stadium. AFP PHOTO

A  Ghanaian journalist thought he had floored Uganda's captain Geoffrey Massa when he put it to him that he is past his best.

"It is coming to two years since you scored for the Cranes. So why should we expect much from you?," he asked as everyone went silent in a pre-match press conference.

But trust Massa when it comes to hitting back. He first looked irritated but quickly composed himself then replied.

"It is because of one of my goals that you are here asking me that question," Massa shot back.

This was in reference to the goal Massa scored in Uganda's win against Ghana.

In June 2015 Uganda got off to a flying start in the Gabon Nations Cup qualifiers courtesy a goal each from Massa and Brian Umony against Botswana.                

Massa, 30, who turns out for South African club Baroka, has however since had a dry spell, prompting talk that he is well over the hill.

Massa believes this tournament should serve as a start to a good spell. He has lately also been scoring at Baroka.

He optimistic that the Cranes, finalists in the last time they featured at this level 39 years ago, will shine again.

"It is a special feeling to be back at this level. All Ugandans are just waiting. We are determined not to disappoint them."

Team coach Milutin Sredojevic was equally optimistic at the well-attended conference.

"I expect Ghana to be a group of top individuals. They are favourites. But I will focus on the team I am coaching," stated Micho, as the Serbian tactician is popularly known in Uganda.

"Our intention is to fight for the first point, first win and then maybe qualification."

Micho said he wants to make Uganda one of the top ten countries in African football.

Uganda takes on Ghana this evening in the 20000 seater ultra-modern Port Gentil stadium.

The last time the two nations met at this level, the Black Stars walked away supreme after beating the Cranes 2-0 in the 1978 final in Accra.

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