Emmanuel Okwi’s brilliant performance at the weekend left many mesmerised but one man believes the best of the striker is yet to be seen.
Emmanuel Okwi
Coach Tom Lwanga says Okwi is too gifted and can deliver much more than he did against Angola on Saturday.
“You rarely get a striker with such speed, ball control, game reading, dribbling skills and ability to shoot with both legs. If maximumly utilised, we could surprise Senegal,” said Lwanga.
Okwi scored Uganda’s first goal and made the assist in Tony Mawejje’s winner as the Cranes briefly cruised to the top of their group.
Lwanga, a defender in the Cranes side that reached the African Cup of Nations final in 1978, notes that on many occasions against Angola, Okwi was superbly positioned but either denied the ball or received it too late.
“He should be showered with balls. This, not only keeps the defence on the back heel, but also increases his scoring chances.”
Lwanga, who coached KCC FC to league and Uganda Cup success, says Okwi reminds him of one of Uganda’s legends Mike “Computer” Kiganda.
“He was exactly of the same build as Okwi and also had similar skills. Because of his stamina, there was always this joke that he had two hearts.”
But Lwanga notes that the Cranes still have a lot of work if they are to go past Senegel.
“Senegal are more accomplished and any defensive blunders like the ones we had on Saturday, will have the Cranes punished.”
Lwanga has called on FUFA to organise build-up friendlies so that the team gels. He is, however, against the idea of playing against strong opposition as many Ugandans have been asking for.
“We should play weaker teams. This, will not only maintain the team’s winning spirit, but also help in perfecting our style of play.”
He cites clubs in the world’s top leagues that follow a similar strategy in their off season.
He observed that the Lions of Terranga are more aggressive than the Cranes.
“We therefore have to be more cautious in defence and midfield, strive to maximise possession and make the best of chances that come our way.”
By James Bakama, The New Vision