KAMPALA, Aug. 21 (Xinhua) -- Senegal coach Abdoulaye Diallo has sounded a warning to Uganda ahead of their quarterfinal encounter at the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) slated for Saturday.
Senegal advanced to the knockout stage after finishing second in Group D, while Uganda topped Group C.
Diallo said his side is determined to show its quality as the defending champion. "We played three matches in the group stage and have only conceded one goal, which shows high defensive discipline," he explained.
"Uganda beat us in the CECAFA 3 Nations preparatory tournament held in Tanzania before CHAN, and we know what to expect against them. They should expect a very strong Senegal side at the quarterfinal stage because we know what to do," said the coach.
Diallo stressed that the group stage objective had been achieved and said his team is fully focused on the next challenge.
"The next match is now against Uganda, and we shall be very ready for playing against a home team that has many fans," he added.
Diallo admitted the absence of defender Mbaye Yaya Ly, who is suspended after being sent off in the last group match against Sudan, would be felt. "We will miss him because he was playing a very important role. But we have other players who will fill the gap."
The CHAN quarterfinals kick off on Friday, with Kenya facing Madagascar in Nairobi, while Tanzania takes on two-time CHAN winner Morocco in Dar es Salaam.
Uganda and Senegal will clash at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, while Sudan faces Algeria in Zanzibar.
The CHAN tournament is contested only by players who play in their respective domestic leagues. Enditem
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