Kampala, (UG): The Uganda Cranes are gearing up for a high-stakes double-header in the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers with an air of confidence and determination.
The final preparations for the crucial fixtures against South Africa and Congo kicked off this week with the arrival at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi.
The team is now fully focused on securing their place at the next Africa Cup of Nations, with all eyes on the home clash against South Africa on Friday, November 15, 2024, at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.
Uganda’s preparations were off to a strong start on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, as players already in camp took to the training grounds with purpose. While there are a few players yet to report, the early arrivals, including both local and foreign-based players, have been quick to demonstrate their commitment.
A notable story in this camp is the return of experienced midfielder Geofrey Wasswa, who is back in national colors after a brief absence. Wasswa, who plays for Ethiopian Coffee FC and has previously been part of Uganda’s AFCON campaigns, brings valuable experience and a solid presence in the middle of the park.
Another player to watch is Allan Okello, a gifted playmaker currently at Vipers SC. Okello has shown his game-changing ability in recent fixtures, including providing three assists, two of which came off the bench.
The Cranes will face a tough challenge against Bafana Bafana, but with players like Khalid Aucho, Timothy Awany, and Steven Mukwala in form, the squad is confident that they can take the fight to their opponents. The team’s resolve is further bolstered by the solid leadership of Coach Paul Put, who is leaving no stone unturned in preparing for both the tactical and mental aspects of the game.
The Cranes’ first encounter with South Africa ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw in Johannesburg, with goals from Denis Omedi and Rogers Mato demonstrating Uganda’s resilience. Now, with home advantage, the Cranes are aiming for more than just resilience they want to dominate.
With an intense four-day training camp ahead, the squad is working on refining their tactics and strategies to ensure they are fully prepared for the challenge.
After the South Africa game, Uganda will face Congo in an away match on November 19, 2024, which will also be crucial for their AFCON hopes.
Goalkeepers; 1. Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia) 2. Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa) 3. Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC, Uganda) 4. Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa)
Defenders;- 5. Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda) 6. Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic) 7. Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (FC Slovan Liberec, Czech Republic) 8. Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod, Israel)
Midfielders;- 9. Geofrey Wasswa (Ethiopian Coffee FC, Ethiopia) 10. Khalid Aucho (Yanga SC, Tanzania) 11. Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin II, USA) 12. Taddeo Lwanga (APR FC, Rwanda) 13. Travis Mutyaba (Girondins Bordeaux, France) 14. Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania) 15. Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa, Uganda)
Forwards: 16. Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda) 17. Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC, Uganda) 18. Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda) 19. Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda) 20. Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa,Uganda)
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