Toothless Geoffrey Massa has been dropped from Uganda’s starting XI for the the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group D football clash against Mali.
Micho Sredojevic has dropped his captain from the starting line-up after giving serious consideration to what is the biggest decision of his controversial managerial reign.
The skipper, who has for months been booed by sections of local fans for his poor performances has failed to get a shot on target in Gabon over two games and will have to settle for a place on the bench.
Micho has been adamant he is strong enough to leave Massa on the bench if needed, saying he made far harder decisions during his coaching career telling TheUgandan; “We selected a blend of experience and youth who are the future of Ugandan football where. No body will be gifted and awarded place.”
Also dropped to the bench is ageing midfielder Tony Mawejje and goalkeeper Denis Onyango who has fitness issues and will be replaced by Moses Oloya, Luwagga Kizito and Robert Odongkara repectively.
Starting Lineup: Robert Odongkara- Denis Iguma, Murshid Jjuuko, Hassan Waswa Mawanda, Godfrey Walusimbi- Khalid Aucho, Geoffrey ‘Baba’ Kizito- Moses Oloya, Luwagga Kizito, Joseph Ochaya- Farouk Miya
Mali know nothing less than a win against Uganda tonight will see them miss out on the quarter-finals.
Alain Giresse’s side must beat Uganda and hope Egypt lose to Ghana in the final round of Group D games – but something will have to change given that they have yet to score at this year’s tournament.
Mali’s hopes may be boosted by the fact that their opponents are already out of the competition, but coach Milutin Sredojevic insists his side will be fighting for pride in their final match at the tournament.
