"Nothing will keep our eyes off the ball" - Says Cranes goal keeper Ismail Watenga

Uganda Cranes goal keeper Ismail Watenga has warned that they will not keep their eyes off the ball as the national team shine-polished their tactics ahead of a clash with Mali at the ongoing 2016 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) finals in Rwanda.

The Cranes who are currently camped in Rubavu, Rwanda open up their campaign on Tuesday 19th against West African giant Eagles of Mali who are members of pool D along with Zambia and Zimbabwe.

“We are like brothers in the camp. Nothing will keep our eyes off the ball. The public needs to believe in us. We are doing well in camp and looking forward to the games,” Watenga told the federation’s website.

The Vipers’ custodian who is competing for a slot in the starting line along with teammate James Alitho and Bright Stars’ Mathias Kigonya also commented about the mood in camp which he described as being just fine with the confidence being high ahead of their opener.

“We have received our allowances even before we kick a ball. All we need is support from the fans back home during this tournament,” the 2015 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup winner added.