Paul Put Names 28-Man Cranes Squad for 2025 AFCON Qualifiers

Uganda Cranes head coach, Paul Put, has unveiled a formidable 28-man squad ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, as the national team gears up for crucial matches against South Africa and Congo Brazzaville. The Cranes are set to face South Africa on Friday, October 6, at Orlando Stadium, followed by a home game against Congo Brazzaville on Monday, September 9, at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Coach Put, known for his strategic acumen, has assembled a blend of experience and youthful vigor in the squad. However, the team will face an early challenge as defenders Kenneth Ssemakula and Halid Lwaliwa will miss the opening fixture due to visa issues. Their absence puts added pressure on the remaining defenders to fortify the backline against a strong South African side.

The Cranes will depart for South Africa on Saturday, August 31, to begin preparations for the opening game in what is expected to be a highly competitive Group K. Uganda finds itself in a tough group alongside South Africa, Congo Brazzaville, and South Sudan, with the top two teams advancing to the 2025 AFCON tournament.

One of the notable inclusions in the squad is youngster Calvin Kabuye, a former Sweden U-23 player, whose presence is expected to increase competition among the forwards. Kabuye's addition to the team reflects Coach Put's commitment to injecting fresh talent into the squad while maintaining a balance with seasoned players.

The squad also features key players such as goalkeepers Isma Watenga (Golden Arrows), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces), and Charles Lukwago (Venda), alongside a solid defensive lineup that includes the likes of Elvis Bwomono (St Mirren) and Bevis Mugabi (Famagusta).

In the midfield, the Cranes will rely on the experience of Khalid Aucho (Yanga) and the youthful energy of Travis Mutyaba (Zamalek) to control the tempo of the game and create opportunities for the forwards.

Upfront, the team will look to the goal-scoring prowess of Denis Omedi (Kitara), Shaban Muhammad (Al Hilal), and Allan Okello (Vipers) to lead the attack and secure vital goals in these crucial qualifiers.

As the Cranes prepare to take on their Group K opponents, the team’s focus will be on securing a top-two finish to guarantee their place in the 2025 AFCON tournament. With the right blend of experience, youth, and tactical discipline, Uganda Cranes are poised to make a strong case for qualification.

Uganda Cranes Squad for 2025 AFCON Qualifiers:

• Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga (Golden Arrows), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces), Charles Lukwago (Venda)

• Defenders: Elvis Bwomono (St Mirren), James Begisa (URA), Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov), Joseph Ochaya (Al Mokawlon), Aziz Kayondo (Slovan Liberec), Bevis Mugabi (Famagusta), Halid Lwaliwa (Al Ain), Arnold Odongo (SC Villa), Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod), Kenneth Ssemakula (Club Africain)

• Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Yanga), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin II), Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA), Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa), Travis Mutyaba (Zamalek), Said Mayanja (KCCA)

• Forwards: Denis Omedi (Kitara), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara), Joachim Ojera (Al Mokawlon), Rogers Mato (Braga Strumica), Steven Mukwala (Simba), Shaban Muhammad (Al Hilal), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens), Allan Okello (Vipers)