D.R. Congo’s Ibenge admits being beaten at own game by Uganda Cranes

‘We had trained to surprise Uganda with set pieces but we ended up being surprised with them (cranes). We need to work harder.” These were the words of Democratic Republic of Congo’s head coach, Florent Ibenge as he spoke to the media in the mandatory post match press conference at the Cairo International stadium last night.

His face said it all. The tactician looked somber, confused and worried. A loss to the Uganda Cranes was like a dagger in the heart of Congo. With all their stars, Yanick Bolasie, Cedric Bakambu and the rest, with their physic and energy, the two time African champions barely troubled Uganda’s number one, Denis Onyango.

In his submissions, Ibenge revealed how they had trained to execute set pieces, as a way of taking advantage of their size, but he admitted they had been surprised by the Ugandans. Congo was beaten at their own goal he thought, but little did he know that even Uganda had practiced set pieces.

Uganda scored two goals from set pieces, you would shudder to remember the last time this happened.

The Ugandan tactician Sebastien Desabre noted how important it was to score the first goal.

"It was very important to score that first goal in the first half. We worked hard on the set pieces and the boys delivered, “said Desabre.

On the missed chances, the coach showed concern, but credited the boys for being able to create them.

“I think it was very good the team create more chances. We had a good organisation ".

This was the first win for Uganda at the AFCON finals in 41 years. It was also an endorsement for Desabre, who was still doubted by many back home.

This is the first time the French tactician coaches a national team, and on his continental debut, beats two time champions in such a domineering fashion.

He puts it all down to the hard work.

"Our campaign was to work together as a team, and get results as a team. Our win against DR Congo was an important victory because we didn't win any game in the past edition (2017 AFCON finals) but we have now won. It's just the beginning. Because we now say we haven't won anything yet because we need to focus on winning another important game against Zimbabwe on Wednesday 26/06/2019 to be be able to book a place at the next stage (quarter finals)".

Uganda’s next task will be against Zimbabwe on Wednesday.

Uganda is currently on top of group A with 3 points ahead of the hosts Egypt who are level on points with Uganda but with an inferior goal difference.