All is set for this afternoon’s encounter of the first leg of the fourth round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers between hosts Uganda and Ghana at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende starting 4pm.
Both teams have are already arrived at Kitende. The Ugandans arrived in red jerseys and black shorts while their opponents were clad in yellow jerseys and black trousers.
The ggame will be relayed live on public broadcaster, UBC.
Uganda in December progressed to this round following their barren draw with South Africa in the return leg of the third round at Dobsonsville Stadium in South Africa. The girls had won the first leg 1-0 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on December 3 courtesy Hadijah Nandago’s only goal.
Meanwhile, to reach this stage, Ghana registered a slim 1-0 win over Zambia at the third round, thanks to Evely Badu’s 36th minute goal.
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi and skipper Fauzia Najjemba yesterday expressed readiness ahead of today’s encounter against Ghana.
The duo indicated the team has prepared adequately during Friday’s press briefing held at FUFA House, Mengo.
The gaffer asserted that his charges have enough time in camp and the players are physically and mentally ready to face Ghana.
“We have adequately prepared for the game against Ghana and all players are geared towards our target which is winning,” he stated.
Kiyingi is unfazed by the threat that Ghana pose and indicates he has done his part of making sure his troops are ready.
“We respect Ghana because they have the pedigree. They have played at the World Cup before but my role is to prepare the players which we have done. It is what we offer at the pitch that matters not the history.”
Captain Najjemba is aware of Ghana’s abilities but she insists they are ready for the task ahead of them.
“Ghana will not be an easy opponent and it will not be an easy game but we are ready as players for the challenge. The coaches have given us the best preparations and all we have to do is execute the tactics.”
The forward lauded FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim for allowing fans to come and watch the game and states this will even motivate them further.
“I want to thank FUFA President for allowing the fans back into the stadium. This gives us more confidence and welcome them to Kitende on Saturday to come and rally behind us.”
FUFA President Moses Magogo rallied the girls not to be intimidated by the name of the opponents, but focus on winning the game.
“Don’t be intimidated by names, these days what separates teams is desire to win. We must want to beat Ghana more than Ghana wants to beat us as simple as that. Just give your best and God will reward you with success,” says Magogo.
The winner between Uganda and Ghana on aggregate will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying hurdle.
