David GOMBE
Uganda Hippos will face off with Nigeria Flying Eagles in the opening game of the 2023 All Africa games at the Accra Stadium on Thursday evening (11PM).
Under the stewardship of Morley Byekwaso Ochama, the Hippos are returning to the competition for the first time since 2011.
In 2011, the Hippos had their journey end at the group stage in Mozambique and will this time be targeting a place in the knockout phase.
Nigeria are winners of the 1973 edition and finished as runners up in 2019, losing to winners Burkina Faso.
The two sides last faced off at U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt with Nigeria cruising to a 1-0 victory.
Uganda Hippos head coach Byekwaso is optimistic that his side will prevail over Nigeria
“We do respect Nigerians as superpowers of African football but we don’t fear them. A lot has changed since they beat us the last time, and we are ready to show them we have improved since then.” Said Byekwaso
His counter part Ladan Bosso also eyes a bright start
“We have prepared a lot for this competition, the players are disciplined and ready for the action. We are not only counting on the talents of the players but also the support of the Nigerians living here in Ghana to encourage and support the boys.” Noted Bosco
The Hippos will look up to Patrick Jonah Kakande, Usama Arafat and Allan Oyirwoth for inspiration.
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will look up to Daniel Daga, Daniel Bameyi, Nathaniel Nwosu and Kehinde Ibrahim, who all featured at last year’s U20 World Cup in Argentina.
