After emerging as the Uganda Premier League top scorer with 16 goals, Francis Olaki believes the sky is the limit.
Olaki has been named in the 25-man squad by Cranes coach, Mulitin “Micho” Sredejovic for this weekend’s 2015 Orange Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar in Antananarivo.
The invitation comes as a huge boost for the 18-year old, who was part of the Uganda squad for the Orange CHAN tournament in South Africa earlier, where he left his footprint by setting-up the winning goal for the Cranes against Les Etalons of Burkina Faso at the group phase.
The forward has a good chance to partner his elder brother, Emmanuel Okwi who plays for Simba in Tanzania, in the Cranes attack for the crucial duel against the Islanders.
“I’m looking forward to that day where I will partner my brother in the Cranes set-up. I’m working hard to fulfill the dream and the family is waiting eagerly for that moment,” Olaki poured to Cafonline.com
His speed and pace makes him a huge prospect for Ugandan football and Olaki who idolizes the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha is poised to double his effort to catch the attention of Micho and the technical handlers.
The talented forward cut his teeth three years ago at a regional tournament, where he was scouted by second-division side, Soana FC. He will later aid their qualification into the elite division and cap it with the top scorer gong.
“My Brother is a challenge to me, he has scored spectacular goals for the team and I believe I get the chance to play alongside him, and we will help Uganda reach the Promise Land.”
Okwi, current leading marksman for the Cranes with 18 goals in as many matches is convinced about the qualities of his kid-brother.
The 21-year old Simba forward said: ”I feel good he has made it to the national team. He deserves to be here and I’m hoping to work with him to help the team’s cause. I guide him on what to do and want to see him progress in his international career.”
The return leg will be played on the weekend of 30-31 May or 1 June 2014 in Kampala with the winner advancing to the second round of the qualifying campaign.
Uganda has failed to reach the finals of showpiece African football tournament since 1978, where they lost to Ghana at the final.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) News
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