Despite a series of successive stalemates in Uganda Cranes’ buildup matches leading to the African Nations Championships (CHAN), head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic was left particularly impressed with the spirit in the squad.

Uganda opened the preparation matches with a two-all draw with Sudan and followed it up with a 1-1 stalemate against Cameroon before Sunday’s goalless with Mali.

“I give credit to all the players, everyone gave everything,” started the tactician after the Mali impasse.

“We are never saying never, we are never giving up and the players are representing the respect for their families and country.”

The Serbian was also in full praise of youngsters Titus Ssematimba and Travis Mutyaba, asserting that the future is bright with the duo.

“Ssematimba has yet again shown what we have always seen, his work rate and contribution in today’s game and readiness to play number 10, I believe he has knocked on the door to the first eleven.”

“After the CHAN, I believe Ssematimba and Mutyaba will be ready to go and help the U-20 (in the Egypt AFCON) and give their best.”

“I am happy that despite us looking for performances from the team, we’re also grooming the future stars,” added the 53-year-old.

“I believe he (Ssematimba) is knocking on the door and several football people have been asking me about our future stars and of course, I can’t miss recommending those two.”

Uganda is locked in Group B for the Algeria edition, along with Senegal, Ivory Coast, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Cranes will open their charge against DRC on January 14 at the 19 May Stadium, Annaba.