And to Onyango, the players must perform at their best in the competitions leading to the grand edition if Uganda is to assert a grip on the continent.
Uganda Cranes legend Dennis Masinde Onyango has advised Ugandan players to strategically position themselves as the country prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
With the country hosting its first-ever AFCON, the Cranes need to be at their competitive best to tussle with some of the finest nations on the continent.
And to Onyango, the players must perform at their best in the competitions leading to the grand edition if Uganda is to assert a grip on the continent.
06:32 - 28.11.2023
STARS ABROAD Juliet Nalukenge over the moon after first goal on return from injury
The 20-year-old came off the bench to score once as the Cyprus giants trumped AEZ Xpyiomaia 7-0 at the Laourou Stadium on Sunday.
"It's important for them to understand that the country is behind them, and they should be able to give their best for the country regardless of who plays," Onyango said in an interview with Pulse Sports.
"Everyone on the national team has the opportunity to do what they got to do for the country, and we build up for the AFCON that we bid for."
12:58 - 27.11.2023
'No player can risk' - Onyango not convinced with Nakivubo Stadium standards
While it's not certain whether the purpose is to have the stadium as a training or a host for the games, former Uganda Cranes captain Dennis Onyango doesn't believe it's up to the right standards.
"We need to have a strong side when we host the AFCON in a couple of years, so it's essential for the boys to have a long vision," the Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper added.
"The vision to oversee not what's just here, so it's very important to do well in these campaigns and create opportunities to play in the first AFCON in Uganda."
12:03 - 27.11.2023
STARS ABROAD Dennis Onyango on Salim Jamal, Ismail Watenga's time in South Africa
On the other hand, Jamal, who joined Richards Bay last season, had an excellent first season as he played 27 games and has already featured ten times this season, all to Onyango's gratification.
Uganda will hope for a respectable show at the 2027 AFCON, given that it will be held on home soil.