Entebbe, Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni yesterday revealed that the tactical advice he shared with the Uganda Cranes after their clash with Algeria helped turn the team’s fortunes in the just-concluded CHAN tournament.
Speaking at the Cranes’ celebratory dinner at State House Entebbe on Wednesday evening, Mr Museveni said in his counsel to the team after the opening defeat, he reminded the players of a core principle he often teaches in the military: 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 explained.
The President said his advice was shared after the Algeria fixture exposed defensive gaps, but was glad that the Cranes responded by adjusting their tactical discipline, a shift that gave them an edge in subsequent performances.
Despite the challenges, the President praised the players’ fighting spirit and announced that government had fulfilled its financial pledge to the team. “As promised, we have fulfilled our pledge to them, as motivation is an essential part of building capacity,” he said.
Museveni also hailed the tournament’s Local Organizing Committee, led by First Lady Janet Museveni, for Uganda’s successful co-hosting of the competition with 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.
“This event was not only a sports competition but also a lesson in unity and regional capacity,” Museveni added.
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