Category: Uganda Cranes

Total Energies CHAN 2025 Qualifiers

Thursday, 26.12.2024 — Burundi vs Uganda, Hamz Stadium Nakivubo (6 PM)

The Uganda Cranes CHAN team conducted their final training session at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo ahead of the CHAN Qualifiers match against Burundi.

The team of twenty six players, summoned by Coach Paul Put who are camping at Nob View Hotel, Ntinda are all in good shape and participated in the final training session on Wednesday evening.

The coach expressed his excitement about the players’ quick adaptation within a short period and indicated the team’s readiness for the match.

‘We’ve worked very hard in a short period of time to prepare the team. We’ve brought in many new players, but I’m glad they’ve been adaptive and ready. The players are motivated and focused, eagerly waiting for the match.’ Said Coach Put

Player Allan Okello emphasized the importance of the match to both the players and the fans, noting that it will motivate them to deliver positive results.

‘We are well prepared, and everyone is fit to play. With the teamwork and unity within the team, we will do our best to achieve good results.Thanks to the guidance of our coaches, we have come to understand each other better, which has been excellent preparation for the final tournament of CHAN 2025. We will not take the game lightly; our focus is to win and bring joy to our fans.’ Noted Okello.

The Squad

Goalkeepers: Hannington sebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC)Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC),Gideon Odongo (NEC FC),Moses Aliro (URA FC),Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa) ,Rogers Torach (Vipers SC),Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC) Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)

Forwards: Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers SC), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC),Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC),James Jarieko (NEC FC), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) and Samuel Ssenyonjo (Express FC)

Pictorial from last training

Total Energies CHAN 2025 Qualifiers
Thursday, 26.12.2024
Burundi vs Uganda
Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo
6 PM
Sunday, 29.12.2024
Uganda vs Burundi
6 PM

The Uganda Cranes CHAN team held their final non-residential training session on Tuesday evening at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

Players will report to Nob View Hotel on Wednesday, 25th December 2025 for a residential camp.

Forward Ivan Ahimbisibwe who was summoned to the team shared his thoughts and future expectations with www.fufa.co.ug.

‘It’s been a long awaited opportunity and there are smiles all around as we focus on the tasks ahead.
We’re playing Burundi and we are well-prepared. By following the instructions from the coaches and working as a team, we are confident of achieving the best results.

The competition for positions is tough because everyone wants to impress the coach. As an individual, I’m doing my best to be considered for the final squad. As a team, everyone is giving their all to ensure we achieve the best results.’ Said Ahimbisibwe

He added ‘Uganda hosting CHAN is a significant opportunity for the country and for individual players. It provides a continental platform that is followed by many people around the world.’

The Squad

Goalkeepers: Hannington Sebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC), Gideon Odongo (NEC FC), Moses Aliro (URA FC), Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC) Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)

Forwards: Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers SC), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC), James Jarieko (NEC FC), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) and Samuel Ssenyonjo (Express FC)

Pictorial

Total Energies CHAN 2025 Qualifiers
Thursday, 26.12.2024
Burundi vs Uganda
Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo
6 PM
Sunday, 29.12.2024
Uganda vs Burundi
6 PM

The Uganda Cranes CHAN team continues preparations for the Total Energies CHAN Qualifiers double-header against Burundi. The Sunday morning training session was conducted at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo and all 26 players were in attendance.

Among the players summoned is NEC FC’s goalkeeper Hannington Sebwalunyo who has put on an outstanding performance in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League this season, keeping five clean sheets and conceding only nine goals.

The Luweero-born custodian says this is an opportunity he has been waiting for and will not take for granted. He is determined to work hard not to disappoint the country and the coaches who have entrusted him with this responsibility.

It is a great privilege and honor to represent the country. The summoning was based on merit and everyone on the team is a performer who truly deserves to be here. Trust me, everyone is giving their best for the country. The training is going well and is very encouraging because this is a new challenge with new tactics and techniques and we are improving with every session.

In the game against Burundi, we have to give our absolute best to secure victory for the country. Having CHAN hosted in Uganda is a great opportunity for us players and a privilege for the country. I would like to thank the government of Uganda and FUFA for their efforts in ensuring that one of the biggest tournaments in Africa comes to Uganda.

He added

Sebwalunyo has also played for Ndejje University, BUL FC, Maroons FC and now NEC FC.

The Squad

Goalkeepers: Hannington Sebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC), Gideon Odongo (NEC FC), Moses Aliro (URA FC), Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC) Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)

Forwards: Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers SC), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC), James Jarieko (NEC FC), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) and Samuel Ssenyonjo (Express FC)

Training Pictorial

The Uganda Cranes CHAN team held its first non-residential training session on Saturday morning at the Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

The team consisting of 24 players trained under the keen supervision of Head Coach Paul Put Joseph assisted by Sam Ssimbwa with Ibrahim Mugisha in charge of goalkeepers and Felix Ayobo serving as the fitness coach.

Two players Samuel Ssenyonjo of Express FC and Jude Ssemugabi of Kitara FC were absent due to club commitments.

Coach Paul Put emphasized that neither he nor the players would underestimate the upcoming game against Burundi as it serves as an important precursor to CHAN and an opportunity to bring joy to the fans.

‘We have a squad of 26 players and today 24 reported for training with two still tied up with their clubs. This first session focused on recovery since 17 players had matches with their clubs yesterday. I have worked with some of these players before and others need time to adapt. Once the remaining players join us, we will shift our focus to tactics and more intensive preparations. Said Coach Put before adding
‘We are not taking the game against Burundi lightly, It is a serious match because we need positive results to excite our home fans and to adequately prepare for CHAN. February 2025 is just around the corner.’

Meanwhile, Player Milton Karisa expressed his excitement about returning to the national team and promised to deliver a strong performance for his country.

‘It feels great to be back as it has been a while since I was part of the Cranes. I am looking forward to representing my country. The game against Burundi is will give us a picture of the final tournament which we will host in February. I urge all Ugandans to support us.’
Players who reported for Day One training session.
Goalkeepers: Hannington Ssebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)
Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC), Gideon Odongo (NEC FC), Moses Aliro (URA FC), Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC), Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)

Forwards

Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa, Milton Karisa (Vipers SC),Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC), James Jarieko (NEC FC)

The Nile Special-sponsored regional tour took the Men’s Senior National Team to Rukungiri for a match against the Western Region Select at Makobore Playground.

The Sam Ssimbwa-coached side had a goalless draw against the Igga Ismail-coached side with chances from both sides not yielding fruit.

Goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa made a last-minute save in the ninetieth minute to deny the opponents, sending the fans into a frenzy.

Uganda Cranes Line-Up

Western Region Select Line-Up

Oyango Kwizeera Isaac, Beinomugisha Timothy, Rashid Mahadi, Nahabwe Akram, Niyonziima Benon, Tumusiime Henry, Selemba Joseph, Kamugisha Clinton, Kaijaa Sunny, Taremwa Alex, Kamwesiga Jacob

Substitutes

Akampurira Davis, Aikiriza Isaac Messi, Aijuka Edgar, Murokozi Conrad, Mwebembezi Andrew, Mutungi Ronald, Muhairwe Davis, Hussein Kato Nuwamanya, Kabogore Ramathan, Akatwijjuka Kevin Jacob

Head Coach: Igga Ismail
Assistant Coach: Turyasingura Innocent

Pictorial

The Uganda Cranes contingent comprising players and coaches arrived in Rukungiri at 5:00 PM and conducted recovery training at Makobore Play Ground.

The match between Western Region Select and the Uganda Cranes will take place on Sunday 24th November 2024 starting at 4:00 PM.

Pictorial

Arrival

Recovery training

A total of twenty-one players have been summoned for the western region tour match that will take place in Rukungiri on Sunday 24th November 2024 at Makobore Play Grounds.

The team will assemble and depart from Kampala on Saturday morning.

Uganda Cranes has qualified for Africa Cup of Nations 2025 with two games to play. This was confirmed on Thursday evening after South Sudan defeated Congo 3-2 at Juba Stadium.

The result meant Uganda sealed qualification to AFCON on ten points alongside South Africa who they play at Mandela National Stadium on Friday.

Uganda Cranes closely followed the game between South Sudan and Congo in camp and went into celebrations immediately after the fulltime whistle.

They were joined in celebrations by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

Uganda has now qualified to AFCON eight times. These include;

1962
1968
1972
1974
1978
2017
2019
2025

As the Uganda Cranes set their sights on the 2025 AFCON, preparations for a crucial double-header qualifier kicked off with intensity and resolve. The team faces a defining moment, starting with a home match against South Africa on Friday, November 15, at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. With everything on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the Cranes are fully aware of the magnitude of the task at hand.

The Uganda Cranes officially reported to camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi yesterday to commence final preparations for the key AFCON 2025 Qualifier matches. The team is set to face South Africa in a home fixture on 15th November 2024, followed by an away match against Congo on 19th November 2024.

The camp is alight with several local-based and foreign based players already in attendance as they aim to secure Uganda’s place in the upcoming AFCON tournament. The team’s technical and management staff are also on site, working together to ensure that all aspects of the camp are meticulously organized for maximum focus and productivity.

Today, Monday 11th November 2024 marked the beginning of the Cranes’ focused training camp. Though seven players have yet to report, the early arrivals took to the pitch with purpose, determined to make every minute count. Head coach Paul Put was encouraged by the energy and motivation his players displayed, even as they shook off the fatigue from long flights. “The players are very motivated,” he shared, confident in their commitment, yet mindful of the toll of travel. The Namboole training grounds were alive with intensity as the players poured their efforts into each drill, signaling the beginning of a spirited preparation period.

One of the camp’s key stories is the return of Ethiopian-based Wasswa Geofrey, a seasoned midfielder who last donned the national colors in 2023. Wasswa, who made a name for himself while at KCCA FC, was part of the squad that faced Algeria in the previous AFCON qualifiers. His experience is a welcome boost to the team. “I am happy to be back,” Wasswa expressed, with a look of determined resolve. “The competition is tighter of late, but I will work harder, give my best so that we qualify.” For Wasswa, this return is not just about rejoining the squad; it’s about playing a pivotal role in a dream shared by millions of Ugandans.

Amid the mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, Allan Okello stands out as a player with the potential to tip the scales in Uganda’s favor. Known for his playmaking ability, Okello has been a game-changer, recording three assists in recent matches—two of which he delivered as a substitute. His agility and quick thinking on the field are assets Uganda will lean on heavily against South Africa. Speaking to the press, Okello conveyed his enthusiasm: “First day, first training. Moods are high, and the most important thing on Friday is qualification.” With a mature perspective beyond his years, Okello embodies the spirit of a team that’s ready to give its all.

The Uganda Cranes are now camped in Kisaasi- Cranes Paradise Hotel, where they’ll spend four intensive days preparing for the showdown. The training regimen includes tactical drills, honing their physical edge, and meticulous planning for every possible scenario they may face on Friday. In this final stretch, Coach Put and his staff are fine-tuning formations and match strategies, determined to exploit every advantage they have over the Bafana Bafana. Namboole’s “slaughterhouse” awaits, and the Cranes are intent on turning it into a fortress against their South African rivals.

Uganda’s journey to this crucial match was set in motion with a dramatic 2-2 draw in Johannesburg. Goals from Denis Omedi and Rogers Mato proved Uganda’s resilience. Now, on their home turf, the Cranes are self-confident to go beyond resilience—they are preparing to dominate, with sights set firmly on victory.

The team will pick up from today’s work out at the same venue tomorrow Tuesday 12th November 2024 at 4pm.

Players in camp

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) 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) 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) 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)

Hinged on taking the players closer to the fans in the different regions, the Uganda Cranes played against the West Nile Select Team in Yumbe District today 20th October 2024 in a match that ended 2-1 in their favour.

An early goal from Vipers SC Defender Patrick Mbowa in the 8th minute determined the first-half result for the Sam Ssimbwa-coached side.

A few minutes after the start of the second half, Police FC’s Denis Kalanzi scored to double the cranes lead.

The host team pulled one back in the 81st minute through Khalid Odagiu.

While making his remarks, FUFA Executive Committee Member Ariga Rasoul warmly welcomed the team to the West Nile Region.

The Uganda Cranes squad for the West Nile Region Tour has been named. The match is scheduled for Sunday, October 20th 2024 at Yumbe Booma Grounds, Yumbe District.

The team will leave Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi on Saturday morning and reside in Arua City.

Squad