Former Uganda Cranes skipper Denis Onyango has challenged the team to venture out and seek the nation’s glory ahead of their crucial opener against Algeria this Monday, August 4, 2025.

The East African head into the tournament hoping for a win to follow in the steps of their fellow hosting nations, Kenya and Tanzania, who kicked off their campaign with a winning start.

Tanzania got their stint off to a winning start after a 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the group opener staged at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, August 2, 2025.

Abdul Suleiman Sopu and Mohammed Hussein’s goals secured the historic win for Hemed Morocco’s charges.

Meanwhile, Kenya replicated the hosts’ unbeaten start by sinking DR Congo by a solitary goal in the Group A opening tie staged at the Moi International Kasarani on Sunday, August 3, 2025.

Speaking ahead of the clash, the shot-stopper urged the players to give their all and defend the country’s football pride against the formidable North Africans.

Fight for the nation

“I want to wish the Uganda Cranes all the best as they take on the Desert Foxes at Namboole Stadium. Boys, you can do it; believe in yourself. Give your best and fight for the nation,” he said.

The custodian also sent an appeal to the fans, urging them to turn up in their numbers and show the boys some love

“For the supporters come in big numbers Let’s support the boys because they need you. Your support will push them to get the victory. Let’s Go Uganda Cranes,” he concluded.

His plea comes after the Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra opened up on the nature of opposition he anticipates ahead of the clash scheduled for the 8:00 pm kickoff.

The Algerian player admitted it will be a tough call against a home team buoyed by its fans but affirmed that the Desert Foxes are prepared for what the Cranes will throw at them in what he predicts will be a tense clash.

 “We know it will be a tough game; they will be playing for the fans. We are anticipating a tough match because Uganda will give it their all to make their fans proud. It means the spirit and level of desire and the spirit will be high, and we will need to match it,” he told FUFA.

The coach also spoke on the significance of getting a positive result in the opening clash, terming it as key to setting the tone for the team.

“I am happy to start with this kind of game. It will get you straight into the competition. To handle the competitiveness. We have to handle that; it will give us the motivation we need to continue in the game,” he stated.