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Khalid Aucho and Milton Karisa have been handed starting berths, replacing Ismail Mugulusi and Fahad Bayo in the only changes to the team.
Uganda Cranes coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has revealed the starting lineup for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations qualifier (AFCON) against Algeria at the Jopama Stadium.
Making a few changes from the previous friendly encounter against DR Congo, Micho is determined to field a formidable team that will give Uganda the best chance of securing a victory.
Khalid Aucho and Milton Karisa have been handed starting berths, replacing Ismail Mugulusi and Fahad Bayo in the only changes to the team.
These changes demonstrate Micho's strategic thinking and desire to inject fresh energy into the team.
Goalkeeper Salim Jamal retains his spot between the posts after delivering commendable performances in the previous qualifiers against Tanzania and DR Congo.
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AFCON2023Q LIVE: It is time for maths after the Cranes fell to Algeria
The Uganda Cranes will now have to defeat Niger with a difference of at least three goals and hope Tanzania losses to Algeria on Matchday six.
Jamal will be eager to showcase his shot-stopping abilities and make amends for Uganda's previous loss to Algeria.
Charles Lukwago, who was in goal during the first leg against Algeria, will offer support from the bench.
In the defensive line-up, Kenneth Ssemakula continues as the right back, with Gavin Kizito unfortunately ruled out due to injury.
On the left side, Abdul Aziiz Kayondo steps up as the left back, as Joseph Ochaya remains sidelined with an injury.
These defenders will have the crucial task of keeping Algeria's attacking threats at bay and maintaining a solid defensive shape.
The central defensive partnership will consist of Gift Fred and Halid Lwaliwa, meanwhile, Bobosi Byaruhanga and Khalid Aucho will operate as the holding midfielders, shielding the defence and initiating attacking moves from deep positions.
Their ability to break up Algeria's play and distribute the ball effectively will be crucial to Uganda's success.
In the attacking third, captain Emmanuel Okwi leads the line, showcasing his experience and leadership qualities.
Joining him in the forward line are Milton Karisa and Rogers Kassim Mato, who will provide pace, skill, and goal-scoring prowess.
The game carries great significance towards Uganda’s hopes of returning to the AFCON finals after missing out on the 2021 tournament in Cameroon.
The- Cranes understand the importance of securing a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The stage is set, and the players are ready to battle it out against Algeria. Kick-off time approaches, and all eyes will be on the Uganda Cranes as they aim to claim a crucial victory and inch closer to their AFCON dreams.
How the Cranes line up: Salim Jamal Magoola (GK), Kenneth Ssemakula, Abdul Aziz Kayondo, Gift Fred, Halid Lwaliwa, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Faruku Miya, Emmanuel Okwi, Milton Karisa, Rogers Kassim Mato
Algeria Starting XI: Mandrea, Loucif, Belaid, Bensebaini, Hadjam, Chita, Belkebla, Abdelli, Bouanani, Mahious, Amoura
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