Libya head coach Youssouph Dabo has praised the hospitality of Ugandans after receiving a warm welcome ahead of his side’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against Uganda.
Dabo, who is visiting Uganda for the first time, said the reception from the Ugandan people left a strong impression on him and his delegation.
The Senegalese coach struggled to find the exact English word to describe the welcome he received, referring to the French word “accueil” before describing it as a genuinely warm reception.
“We had a good welcome, with nice people. I don’t know how I can say it in English. In French it’s accueil a good welcome, with nice people,” Dabo said.
The Libya coach said the warmth he experienced in Uganda did not surprise him, drawing similarities between Ugandan and Tanzanian people in terms of culture and mentality.
“It’s not a surprise for me because the people of Uganda, it’s like the people of Tanzania. It’s the same mentality, I think, almost the same culture.”
Dabo went on to speak highly of Ugandans, describing them as friendly people and expressing his happiness at being in the country.
“Ugandan people are very nice people for me, and I’m very, very happy to come here. It’s my first time.”
Beyond the footballing contest, Dabo said his experience in Uganda had been positive enough to make him want to return, with hopes of coming back for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
“I want to come back again, inshallah, to play the AFCON.”
Dabo’s comments provide a welcome acknowledgement of Uganda’s hospitality as the country prepares to host the 2027 AFCON alongside Kenya and Tanzania, while also highlighting the cultural connections he sees across East Africa.