Uganda Cranes head coach, Paul Put, has unveiled a 28-man provisional squad as the national football team embarks on the journey to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Cranes, who are in Group K, will kick-start their qualification campaign with back-to-back fixtures against formidable opponents South Africa and Congo.
September 6, 2024: South Africa vs Uganda at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg.
September 9, 2024: Uganda vs Congo at Namboole Stadium, Kampala.
Uganda’s journey to secure a spot in the AFCON tournament in Morocco begins with a tough challenge as they face South Africa in Johannesburg.
The Cranes will then return home to host Congo at the iconic Namboole Stadium, which has recently undergone renovations to meet international standards.
These matches are crucial for Uganda as they aim for a top-two finish in the group to secure qualification.
Paul Put’s selection for these critical matches reflects a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, all of whom are expected to bring their A-game to the qualifiers.
The 28-man squad features a mix of local and international players, showcasing the depth and diversity of Ugandan football talent.
*Goalkeepers:*
Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC)
Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC)
Charles Lukwago (Venda FC)
The goalkeeping department remains solid with experienced hands like Isima Watenga, who has consistently performed well for his club, Golden Arrows FC.
Charles Lukwago and Nafian Alionzi will provide strong competition for the starting spot, ensuring that Uganda has a reliable last line of defense.
*Defenders:*
Elvis Bwomono (St. Mirren FC)
James Begisa (URA FC)
Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Zizkov)
Joseph Ochaya (Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC)
Abdu Azizi Kayondo (FC Slovan Liberec)
Bevis Mugabi (Motherwell FC)
Elio Capradossi (Unattached)
Halid Lwaliwa (Al Ain SC)
Arnold Odongo (SC Villa)
Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod)
Kenneth Ssemakula (Club Africain)
The defense line is bolstered by the inclusion of players like Bevis Mugabi, who plies his trade with Motherwell FC, and Joseph Ochaya, an experienced left-back from Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC.
The addition of young talent like Kenneth Ssemakula and Arnold Odongo provides a balanced mix of experience and youth, which will be key in countering the attacking threats from South Africa and Congo.
*Midfielders:*
Khalid Aucho (Young Africans)
Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin II FC)
Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC)
Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa)
Travis Mutyaba (Zamalek SC)
Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC)
In the midfield, Khalid Aucho, who currently plays for Young Africans, brings a wealth of experience and leadership. The dynamic Bobosi Byaruhanga and the creative prowess of Travis Mutyaba, who recently joined Zamalek SC, will be vital in controlling the tempo of the game and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Denis Omedi (Kitara FC)
Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC)
Joackiam Ojera (Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC)
Rogers Mato (FC Bregalnica Stip)
Muhammad Shaban (Al Hilal Benghazi)
Steven Mukwala (Simba SC)
Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF)
Allan Okello (Vipers SC)
Uganda’s forward line features some of the most exciting talents in the region, with Muhammad Shaban, who plays for Al Hilal Benghazi, expected to lead the attack. Steven Mukwala, currently with Simba SC, and the versatile Allan Okello of Vipers SC, will be crucial in breaking down the defenses of South Africa and Congo.
The Cranes’ coaching team, led by Paul Put, has emphasized the importance of a solid defensive strategy combined with quick transitions to attack.
This approach will be critical when facing South Africa, known for their fast-paced and physical style of play.
The home game against Congo offers Uganda an opportunity to capitalize on their home advantage, and a win will be essential in setting the tone for the rest of the qualification campaign.
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