Rabat, Morocco: Uganda’s national men’s football team, The Cranes will face Gabon in an international friendly on Wednesday 17th as preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco gather momentum.
The friendly comes days after Uganda held Moroccan giants AS FAR Rabat to a 2–2 draw on Saturday, a match that offered head coach Paul Put both encouragement and areas for concern.
“We played with courage and mentality. There were positives from the first half as we created chances. I was not happy with the second-half ball situation, but we shall improve in the next few days,” Put said.
Uganda is drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania and Nigeria. The Cranes will open their AFCON campaign against Tunisia on December 23, face Tanzania on December 27, and conclude the group stage against Nigeria on December 30.
The tournament will mark Uganda’s eighth AFCON appearance. The Cranes qualified as group runners-up, finishing just one point behind South Africa. Their best-ever AFCON performance came in 1978, when they reached the final but lost to Ghana.
Key Players to Watch
Uganda’s attack will be spearheaded by Rodgers Mato, who scored three goals during qualification and currently plays for FK Vardar Skopje in North Macedonia. Creative midfielder Allan Okello remains central to the team’s buildup, while Denis Omedi brings proven goal threat after scoring decisive qualifying goals.
Young forward James Bogere, fresh from impressive performances at the U17 World Cup, earned his first senior call-up, adding pace and unpredictability up front. Captain Khalid Aucho anchors the midfield with leadership and experience.
In defence, the Cranes boast Elio Caprodosi, John Obita, Toby Sibbick, Abdu Azizi Kayondo and David Owori, while attacking reinforcements include Baba Alhassan and Melvyn Lorenzen.
Group C Opponents at a Glance
Nigeria (Super Eagles): AFCON champions three times (1980, 1994, 2013) and making their 21st appearance. Star striker Victor Osimhen could be decisive if fit.
Tunisia (Carthage Eagles): AFCON 2004 champions, qualifying for a record 22nd tournament. Key players include Ellyes Skhiri, Hannibal Mejbri and Ferjani Sassi.
Tanzania (Taifa Stars): Appearing at AFCON for the fifth time and seeking a first-ever knockout-stage qualification under coach Miguel Gamondi.
Uganda heads into the tournament with a balanced squad blending experience and youthful energy, targeting progression beyond the group stage and a competitive AFCON campaign.
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