Ahead of their maiden game in the Egypt edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, Uganda Hippos' head coach Jackson has re-asserted the team is solely focused on qualifying to the 2023 World Cup.
The Hippos take on Central African Republic on Monday, and positive results will give them the perfect start to this ambition.
"Since assuming charge of the team I've been telling you this, my focus is to reach the World Cup," said Mayanja to the media on Sunday.
A semi-final spot in this edition will help Mayanja and his side book a date at the global edition slated for Indonesia in May this year.
"That's the only target and that's what Ugandans should have at the back of their minds and the team is set for this."
Uganda will also take on Congo Brazzaville and South Sudan on Thursday and Sunday respectively.
In 2020, when the Hippos reached the final, before eventually losing to Ghana 2-0, they had attained the feat, but were unlucky as the World Cup was cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, but, Mayanja is now buoyant history will be made.
"The boys are fully focused, camp is geared for this cause and nothing else. We have everything in place to ensure we make history."
"It's too cold out here, but the boys have had a feel and are getting used to the conditions. I was happy as we played Egypt in a friendly in these conditions."
Unlike in other continental engagements for Ugandan teams, the Hippos are one of the favorites to clinch glory in Egypt, after the defending champions Ghana, didn't qualify for the finals.
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