KAMPALA, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Uganda's national rugby team on Sunday headed out to the United States with their coach promising to upset major teams at the 2018 Rugby World Cup Sevens slated to start on July 20.

Uganda coach Tolbert Onyango told Xinhua in an interview that he has mapped out a strategy for their clash with Samoa in the first game on July 21 at the AT&T Park in San Francisco.

"We have watched Samoa play and played against them before. They are a physical side and we must counter that physicality and make sure our defending is good," Onyango said.

"Yes we are underdogs going for our first World Cup. But the boys are upbeat and looking forward to go and prove to the world that they are good enough," he added.

Michael Okorach, the team captain said the team is looking forward to the competition.

"Playing at the World Cup is big and we must go all out to impress," he said.

In case Uganda defeat Samoa, they will battle England in the round of 16. Giants South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe will be Africa's other representatives at the Rugby World Cup Sevens.

Uganda qualified for the Rugby World Cup Sevens last year after beating Zimbabwe 22-10 to retain the Africa Sevens Rugby Cup. New Zealand are the reigning World Cup champions. Enditem