TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Uganda's tweaked gameplan that overpowered Niger
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Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 13.08.25. | 10:41
This victory was a testament to Uganda’s ability to blend tactical structure with moments of individual quality
Uganda continued their resurgent run in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a 2-0 victory over Niger at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, a result that took them to the summit of Group C.
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Goals from Allan Okello and Joel Sserungoji in each half sealed a second successive win for Moses Byekwaso’s men, who combined structural discipline with well-rehearsed attacking patterns to outmanoeuvre a physically imposing Niger side.
Team Setup and Early Tactical Intent
Byekwaso opted for an unchanged starting XI from the win over Guinea, but his tactical tweaks reflected a plan tailored for Niger’s physical profile.
Fullbacks Herbert Achayi and Gavin Kizito were given more licence to push high and act as primary outlets in Uganda’s build-up.
The centre-backs and goalkeeper frequently initiated attacks by feeding the fullbacks, who in turn linked play into midfield before driving forward.
Kizito, in particular, was aggressive down the right flank, providing early width while Okello drifted inside to create central overloads.
Uganda's initial 4-2-3-1
This not only helped Uganda establish numerical superiority in midfield but also opened space for rotations among the forwards. The Cranes’ front line regularly interchanged positions, with Jude Ssemugabi proving the most mobile.
He roamed between both channels, drawing defenders out of shape and forming wide overloads. His aerial strength also made him the main target for direct balls.
Exploiting the Long Ball and Wide Play
A key element of Uganda’s strategy was the use of long passes into Ssemugabi. Byekwaso’s plan was simple yet effective: if Ssemugabi could win the first ball, he would link play with onrushing teammates; if not, the team would swarm the second ball to quickly regain possession.
This was complemented by wing play aimed at delivering early crosses into the box, capitalising on the 1v1 ability of wingers.
While Niger’s central defensive pairing of Abdoul Oladipo and Mohamed Moumouni dealt with many aerial threats, one such wide sequence led to the opener.
In the first half, Reagan Mpande darted into the box to meet a low cross, only to be tripped by Adamou Djibo.
After a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Okello converted with composure.
Second Goal: A Blueprint Execution
Uganda’s second goal encapsulated their tactical approach. A long ball was contested, with Niger winning the initial header. However, immediate pressure from Watambala’s aggressive challenge forced an error from Ridouanne Asane.
Mpande received the pass from Watambala and surged towards the box, delivering a low cross. Okello’s clever positioning allowed him to lay the ball off for the advancing Sserungoji, who clinically finished with a first-time strike.
This sequence showcased Uganda’s pressing intensity, quick transitions, and use of wide areas to destabilise Niger’s defensive block.
Defensive Structure and Game Management
Out of possession, Uganda initially defended in a 4-2-3-1 shape, with Okello given freedom to stay higher up the pitch. This not only reduced his defensive workload but also kept him ready to exploit counter-attacking situations, a move that directly contributed to his goal and assist.
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After doubling their lead, the Cranes shifted to a more compact 4-4-2, prioritising control of central spaces and forcing Niger to play into less threatening wide areas. The defensive line stayed disciplined, limiting Niger’s ability to combine through midfield and protecting the lead with minimal risk.
This victory was a testament to Uganda’s ability to blend tactical structure with moments of individual quality. Byekwaso’s approach, maximising fullback involvement, targeting second balls, and using wide attacks to penetrate, proved decisive.
Okello’s influential display, combining technical precision with positional intelligence, embodied the success of the game plan.
Against a strong and physical Niger side, Uganda’s adaptability, pressing discipline, and efficient use of attacking transitions were the defining factors that saw them rise to the summit of Group C.
