Minister Khatib challenges Stars

Minister for State, Vice President Office – Union Affairs Muhammed Seif Khatib has asked the national soccer team, Taifa Stars, to fight hard to beat hosts Uganda Cranes in the African Cup of Nations, return leg match set for Saturday in Kampala, Uganda.

The former Information, Culture and Sports minister made the statement when he visited the team`s residential training camp in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

“Tanzanians were happy when you defeated them 2-0 in the first leg in Mwanza. They still have high hopes on you. They now want you to make them happier by beating them on their own soil,“ he said.

The minister said a good team can win anywhere and urged stars not to be scared with the Uganda fans,“ he added.

Khatib advised Stars to use the tournament well to market themselves abroad as it was the best opportunity for them to showcase their talents.

“If you play well soccer agents will see you and any of you may land a lucrative contract abroad,“ he added.

Khatib praised Coach Marcio Maximo and his technical bench for making Taifa Stars perform well.
Taifa Stars are expected to leave for Kampala tomorrow.

Meanwhile, The Cranes regrouped on Monday at the Namboole Stadium for residential training ahead of the Saturday`s return leg against Taifa Stars at Nakivubo Stadium, The Monitor reported yesterday.

Uganda lost 2-0 in the first leg encounter played at the CCM Kirumba in Mwanza and will need an outright victory of at least 3-0 to advance to the next round.

Cranes coordinator Edgar Watson disclosed that most players had reported to camp apart from the ones still featuring in the Super League for their respective clubs.

“Most of the players have already reported to camp and the others that still had league matches to play like URA and Villa will report as soon as they finish their respective matches,“ Watson said.

Express goalkeeper Abel Dhaira, KCC striker Robert Sentongo and Victors forward Simon Sserunkuma are the players that have since been recalled to strengthen the Cranes squad.

The winner between Uganda and Taifa Stars will most probably face Sudan who travels to the Rwanda capital to face the Amavubi Stars with a comfortable four-goal cushion.

• SOURCE: Guardian