The renewal means Put will remain at the helm through the next three years, including Uganda’s campaign in the AFCON 2027 tourney.
Kampala, Uganda: The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has renewed national team coach Paul Put’s contract until 2028, just days after his initial deal expired on November 2, 2025. The extension comes at a critical moment as Uganda gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), slated to kick off on December 21 in Morocco.
The Belgian tactician, who first took charge in November 2023, has played a pivotal role in restoring stability and belief within the Uganda Cranes setup. Under his stewardship, Uganda achieved a major milestone by qualifying for AFCON 2025, their eighth appearance at the continental tournament.
Uganda’s previous AFCON appearances came in 1962, 1968, 1972, 1974, 1978, 2017, and 2019.
The renewal ensures Put will remain at the helm through the next three years, including Uganda’s campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and preparations for AFCON 2027.
The Cranes are in Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania, and will open their campaign against Tunisia on December 23 at the Stade Olympique Annexe Complexe Prince Moulay Abdellah, followed by an East African derby against Tanzania on December 27 at the Stade Al Barid, before facing Nigeria on December 30 at the Complexe Sportif De Fes.
Despite the disappointment of narrowly missing the World Cup playoffs, Put’s influence on the team has been transformative. Uganda finished second in Group G of the qualifiers, tied on 18 points with Mozambique, and although CAF’s rule change later affected their tally, the Cranes’ performance showed marked improvement.
Put has successfully blended foreign-based stars such as Jordan Obita, Toby Sibbick, and Elio Capradossi with local talents including Hilary Mukundane and Nafian Alionzi. His strategy of nurturing young prospects like Mutwalib Mugolofa, Isima Magala, and James Bogere has infused the team with depth and future promise.
The Belgian’s experience in African football, having previously led Burkina Faso to the AFCON 2013 final, has made him one of the continent’s most respected tacticians. FUFA’s decision to retain him until 2028 signals long-term confidence in his developmental project for Ugandan football.
Renewing Put’s contract has brought optimism among fans and players alike. His leadership has instilled professionalism, teamwork, and discipline — attributes that have redefined the national team’s identity and revived Uganda’s footballing spirit.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
