ATRACO coach Sam Timbe has saluted former Cecafa and Fufa (Federation of Uganda Football Associations) boss Denis Obua for playing a major role in improving the standards of football in the region.

Obua breathed his last on Tuesday morning moments after collapsing because of chest pains.

Timbe, who was a fringe player for the Uganda Cranes during the 1978 Africa Nations Cup where Obua made a name as one of the tournament’s best players said, "Obua breathed football, ate football and enjoyed football. His role on the pitch motivated us (former footballers) to enjoy the game and be what we are today.”

Uganda could not finish off the job as they lost 2-0 in the final against hosts Ghana.

"On behalf of my family and the entire football community in the region, I ask God to keep Obua’s family strong during these trying times,” the Ugandan tactician said.

Obua became Fufa president at a time when few believed former sportsmen could translate into administrators. After two terms, he went on to become Cecafa chairman.

Obua is father to Cranes left winger, David Obua, who plays for Hearts FC in Scotland and URA FC player Eric Obua.

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