President Yoweri Museveni has revealed that a piece of tactical guidance he shared with the Uganda Cranes after their opening defeat to Algeria was instrumental in turning around the team’s fortunes at the recently concluded CHAN tournament.
The President made the revelation during a celebratory dinner held at State House Entebbe on Wednesday evening, where he hosted the national team following their spirited campaign.
He explained that his advice was rooted in a military principle he often teaches soldiers about the importance of maintaining an Area of Responsibility (AOR).
“As I joined Maama to watch the Cranes playing against Algeria recently in Nakasero after my official duties, I reflected on a principle I often teach in the military: every Force has an Area of Responsibility (AOR). When everyone goes on the offensive and leaves the defense and goalkeeper exposed, the opponent can easily exploit that gap. That was my analysis of the game,” Museveni said.
The President observed that Uganda’s defensive frailties were exposed in the Algeria clash and he was pleased that the team responded to his analysis by tightening their tactical discipline in later matches.
He noted that this adjustment in shape and responsibility gave the Cranes a sharper competitive edge in subsequent fixtures.
Museveni praised the resilience and determination of the players, emphasizing that their spirit carried them through difficult moments in the tournament.
He also announced that government had honoured its financial promise to the team.
“As promised, we have fulfilled our pledge to them, as motivation is an essential part of building capacity,” he said.
The President further commended the Local Organizing Committee of the tournament, which was chaired by First Lady Janet Museveni, for steering Uganda’s first-ever continental football event to success alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
“Finally, I want to congratulate the Local Organizing Committee, chaired by Maama, for successfully hosting our first continental tournament, in partnership with Kenya and Tanzania,” he said.
Museveni stressed that the competition was more than just a sporting event.
“This event was not only a sports competition but also a lesson in unity and regional capacity,” Museveni added.
