In the 3rd match in Group B, we saw another fine showdown. A match in which everything was still at stake, from group win to possible elimination. It was a must-win for both, and that soon became clear. Uganda dominated much of the match but failed to capitalise on the many chances. South Sudan then managed to counter on their quarter on a few occasions on a counter or by playing well on ball loss. With 16 shots and 69% ball possession, it also quickly became clear in the statistics that Uganda was the stronger team. Jackson Mayanja’s team, which like its opponent started the match in a 4-3-3, often managed to create danger through the flanks. Something that soon stood out in their play.
Ratings:
- A1 – Very good, could play higher
- A2 – Strong potential to play higher
- B1 – Good, strong player at level
- B2 – Potential to be a strong player at level
- C – Average for the level, rewatch
- D – Below average in this match
Rogers Mugisha
Player Profile:
- Nationality: Ugandan
- Age: 19
- Date of birth: 06/06/2003
- Current club: Uganda People`s Defence Force FC
- Career: Mbarara City
- Position: Left Winger
- Secondary Position: Centre-Forward, Right Winger
- Preferred foot: Right
Mugisha played this match from the left flank. He was the more attacking wing of the two. He sought the running action forward and there was a lot of verticality in his play. This was also coupled with his infiltration ability into the enemy box. In terms of profile, he is a fairly standard modern winger, with the necessary speed and action.
In terms of passing, Mugisha is also fine. His crosses are a distinct quality. He can pass well with both feet, something important to create danger. He shows the necessary guts to make an action. Only he still lacks the self-confidence to take his team in tow.
Although he is not the tallest (1m77) and is a rather slim player, he can hold his own in the duels. He has the necessary muscular strength not to be thrown off the ball all the time. Physically, his running ability also stands out. That is perfect for the way he plays. He is often the first defender, he puts high pressure and disrupts with his running actions. He attacks the opponent’s build-up very well, something that typifies him as a player.
He is comfortable with the ball on foot, something that makes him dare to make an action. The efficiency in his actions, therefore, ensures that there is almost always danger from them.
The most glaring “weakness” is his decision-making. He still often makes the wrong decision in possession of the ball. He often opts for a shot at the wrong moment when a cross is the better option or vice versa.
Rating – A2
Mugisha still has a lot of steps to take. Although, he seems strong enough to take a step forward. In both the Ugandan league and international tournaments, he often plays himself in the spotlight. He enjoys the necessary attention, and his development will be followed by a lot of teams.
He fits within a team that plays with high pressing. If he can improve his timing, and focus a little more on his physicality, clubs will surely come knocking.
Travis Mutyaba
Player Profile:
- Nationality: Ugandan
- Age: 17
- Date of birth: 07/08/2005
- Current club: SCV Kampala
- Career: SCV Kampala (Y)
- Position: Right Winger
- Secondary Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Preferred foot: Left
Despite Uganda starting this match in a 4-3-3 formation with two flanks, Mutyaba did not quite fulfil this role. He was often found in the striker’s shadow. Centrally on the pitch, he often came to claim the ball, that way trying to force an action. He could always be found where there was a lot of space. He, therefore, seemed to play a free role.
His teammates also knew his qualities. When he drops out to receive a ball, a pace shift often follows. His vision gives him the quality to break through lines in multiple ways. Both individually and in combination. Individually, he can make an action, his ball handling and speed with the ball on foot ensures he can create danger in multiple ways. In the combination, he can make a good pass and immediately dive into space.
There is a very strong variation in terms of running lines in his game. His speed and vision create an immediate threat when the ball is in his area. His viewing behaviour around him ensures that he has already seen open spaces many times. Before he receives a ball, he sees the position of his direct opponent. An important quality for a footballer.
Mutyaba is a very dribbling player, both in small and big spaces. His athletic ability often allows him to execute well under pressure. He is not afraid to make an action, and they are very often successful.
Physically and defensively, there is still room for improvement. He lacks strength, both on the ground and in the air. In duels, he is therefore often the inferior. In ball loss, he is not always willing to put in much work. He often evades early pressure when the opponent builds up. Also returning defensively, he does too little. Clear work points for if he wants to make strides.
Rating – B1
Mutyaba possesses many basic qualities that a young footballer needs. He can handle both feet, shows strong vision, clearly has enough self-confidence and we could list a few more things like that. If he were to make a big move now, he seems to lose his free role, something that might clash with his style of play. He must be careful not to lose the feeling of playing from a specific position. It seems especially important now to work on those weaknesses, as they are still too noticeable. If he can continue to make strides, Mutyaba looks like one of the stars in Uganda’s up-and-coming generation.
2 comments