Uganda Cranes Squad 2025: Preparing for the TotalEnergies AFCON Double Header Against South Sudan

The Head Coach of the Uganda Cranes, Paul Joseph Put, has officially summoned a strong squad of 27 players to start preparations ahead of the 2025 TotalEnergies AFCON Qualifiers. The team engages in preparations to take on South Sudan in a crucial double header, first on 11th October at the iconic Mandela National Stadium, and the return leg on 15th October 2025, in Juba, South Sudan.

Uganda Cranes Camp Preparations

The team goes into residential camp at the Cranes Paradise Hotel starting on October 6th, 2024, in preparations for these crucial fixtures. The Ugandans are chasing a vital berth in the AFCON tournament with fourth points after two opening games, a 2-2 draw with South Africa and a 2-0 win against Congo.

The Uganda Cranes Squad 2025

Goalkeepers: Reliable Last Line of Defense:

• Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa)
• Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia)
• Charles Lukwago (Venda FC, South Africa)

Any football team is built on the goalkeepers. The Ugandan squad is blessed to have three fantastic keepers, all with international game experience. Isima Watenga, based in South Africa, has been a reliable option for the Cranes, while Nafian Alionzi, who plies his trade in Ethiopia, brings agility and sharp reflexes to the table. Charles Lukwago, another highly experienced goalkeeper from South Africa’s Venda FC, will add depth to the squad’s defense.

Defenders: The Backbone of the Squad:

• Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda)
• Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia)
• Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic)
• Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC, Uganda)
• Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (FC Slovan Liberec, Czech Republic)
• Bevis Mugabi (Famagusta Anorthosis, Greece)
• Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod, Israel)
• Halidi Lwaliwa (Al Ain SC, Saudi Arabia)
• Arnold Odong (SC Villa, Uganda)

Uganda’s defense is a blend of youth and experience, with both local and international clubs represented, one such leading player being Gavin Kizito Mugweri for KCCA FC. Meanwhile, players like Kenneth Semakula and Isaac Muleme, who have made a mark in Tunisia and the Czech Republic respectively, bring international flair to the defensive line. Bevis Mugabi and Timothy Awany, both playing abroad, add strength and versatility, ensuring the Cranes’ backline remains solid.

Midfielders: Controlling the Game:

• Khalid Aucho (Yanga SC, Tanzania)
• Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin II, USA)
• Taddeo Lwanga (APR FC, Rwanda)
• Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa, Uganda)
• Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda)
• Travis Mutyaba (Girondins Bordeaux, France)
• Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Midfield control is going to be very important on both legs against South Sudan, but Uganda is replete with talented midfielders. Khalid Aucho has been serving his trade for Tanzania’s Yanga SC, mostly commanding the center of the pitch with his passing range and leadership. Rising star Bobosi Byaruhanga, who plays in the United States, adds youthful exuberance and energy to the lineup. Players like Travis Mutyaba and Saidi Mayanja bring both creativity and technical ability, making Uganda’s midfield one to watch closely.

Forwards: Attacking Firepower:

• Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda)
• Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda)
• Shafik Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda)
• Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica, North Macedonia)
• Derrick Nsibambi (KCCA FC, Uganda)
• Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania)
• Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden)

Uganda’s forward line is packed with potential goal-scoring threats. Denis Omedi and Jude Ssemugabi, both from Kitara FC, are expected to provide the firepower. Steven Mukwala, who plays for Simba SC in Tanzania, brings international experience and a keen eye for goal, while Rogers Mato, based in North Macedonia, offers a dynamic option on the wings. Derrick Nsibambi and Calvin Kabuye add depth and versatility, ensuring Uganda has various attacking options to break down South Sudan’s defense.

The Importance of This Double Header

The 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have reached the moment of truth for Uganda to seal their place in the competition. Coming off a bright start into the qualification campaign, the team is determined to seal maximum points from the doubleheader against South Sudan. Success in the matches will greatly raise Uganda’s status of qualifying for the final tournament and give them the impetus necessary to compete at the best level in African football.

Squad Selection and Preparations

It was a carefully selected squad for the Uganda Cranes 2025, mixing a lot of experience with youngsters and also international exposure. The result showed that Uganda had some very talented players playing across different leagues in the world. Finally, the team, which has been preparing at Cranes Paradise Hotel will be ready to take up the challenge of South Sudan.

Conclusion

The Uganda Cranes Squad 2025 has been ready for action with the challenge of the AFCON qualifiers. A well-balanced resource of talent, coupled with tactical preparation, the team is set to make an effect. The fans and supporters will be witnessed in an exciting and competitive performance as Cranes fight for a slot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.