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Uganda FIFA World Rankings: 2024 Highlights, Achievements, and Future Goals

Uganda FIFA World Rankings. The Uganda Cranes wrapped up the 2024 calendar year, ranked in 88th position of the FIFA rankings released this Thursday, 19 December. While the rankings indicate no movement from earlier positions for Uganda, its current football tale in the world has characterized one of fortitude and upward movement towards some respectable landmarks.

From their impressive qualification to the 2025 AFCON to continued dominance in the CECAFA region, Uganda’s steady presence in the rankings reflects a year of solid performances and strategic growth.

Uganda FIFA World Rankings: AFCON Qualification and Beyond

Although their global ranking remains unchanged, Uganda’s 2024 campaign was far from ordinary. Under head coach Paul Put, the Cranes secured their spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament set to be held in Morocco. Finishing as runners-up in Group K, Uganda amassed 13 points—just one shy of group leaders South Africa.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the consistency the Cranes displayed throughout the qualifiers. Their 13 points represented the highest tally among all second-placed teams in the qualification process. This consistency was key in securing their place among Africa’s elite teams.

Strong Performances in Group K

Uganda’s AFCON qualification journey showcased their resilience and adaptability. Key victories over challenging opponents, combined with disciplined defensive strategies, underscored their commitment to excellence.

Match Highlights: The Cranes defeated formidable rivals in tightly contested matches, earning critical points that ensured their qualification.
Tactical Growth: Head coach Paul Put’s strategies focused on team cohesion and defensive solidity, which paid dividends during the qualifiers.

This qualification serves as a testament to the team’s growing maturity and ability to perform under pressure, setting a strong foundation for future competitions.

Regional and Continental Rankings

On the continental stage, Uganda ranks as the 19th-best team in Africa. While this position signifies steady progress, it equally presents opportunities the team has to strive to climb higher in future rankings.

Uganda has stayed atop the regional competition with ease in the CECAFA region, keeping them ahead of other teams like Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. To the fans of Ugandan football, it is an inspirational feeling being top of the pack leadership in East Africa, a region where regional bragging rights are cherished as evidence that their country has remained committed to keeping the competitive fire in East Africa.

Argentina still leads the way at the top of the FIFA World Rankings, with European powerhouse France and Brazil completing the top three.

Looking Ahead: A Packed Calendar for 2025

The year 2025 promises to be one of many activities and hopes for Uganda, as the Cranes will not only be attending the AFCON tournament in Morocco but also hosting the African Nations Championship, popularly known as CHAN, and navigating the rigors of World Cup qualification.

CHAN 2025: A Unique Opportunity

Hosting CHAN in 2025 provides Uganda with a rare chance to showcase their footballing infrastructures and talents. Since CHAN is only open for players featuring in domestic leagues, it allows some stars from the local league to blossom into the international scene.

Spotlight on Local Talent: Players in the Ugandan domestic league will be given an opportunity to compete at the highest level, thus showcasing the depth of footballing talent within the country.
Boosting National Morale: Hosting a major tournament is expected to galvanize support from fans and stakeholders, further energizing the Cranes’ journey.

World Cup Qualifiers: A Tough Challenge

Besides CHAN and AFCON, Uganda will begin their quest for qualification to the FIFA World Cup. Pitted against some of the finest teams on the African continent, the Cranes will have to keep their disciplinary and tactical sharpness if they are to see a chance of going to the world stage.

Uganda FIFA World Rankings: Key Areas for Improvement

While the 2024 achievements of Uganda are great, there are clear areas where the team can improve in order to climb higher in the FIFA rankings:

Goal-Scoring Consistency: For sure, the Cranes have to work on their attacking force for those convincing wins against better teams.
Increased International Exposure: The more friendlies played against highly ranked teams will give Uganda valuable experience and points in the rankings.
Focus on Youth Development: Investing in youth academies and grassroots football will ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the national team.

Uganda’s Football Legacy: Building for the Future

Uganda’s steady ranking at 88th reflects more than just statistics; it represents a country on the rise in the world of football. The Cranes’ performances in 2024 demonstrate a clear trajectory of growth and ambition, with players and management alike striving to elevate Ugandan football to new heights.

Fan Support: The Backbone of Success

The support of Ugandan football fans is consistent and one that motivates the team a lot. From fully packed stadiums in the qualifiers to impassioned online campaigns, the fans have been a strong force in propelling the Cranes.

Engaging the Community: Initiatives to involve fans in team activities and decision-making can strengthen the bond between the team and its supporters.
Boosting Attendance: Encouraging more fans to attend matches both domestically and internationally will boost the morale and visibility of the team.

Infrastructure Development: A Key Investment

To sustain their growth, Uganda must continue investing in football infrastructure. From training facilities to stadiums, upgrading resources will ensure that the Cranes remain competitive on both regional and global stages.

Quick Facts: Uganda FIFA Rankings and 2024 Achievements

- Current FIFA Ranking: 88th globally
- Africa Ranking: 19th
- CECAFA Region: 1st
- Group K AFCON Qualifiers: 2nd place with 13 points

Top Achievement: Qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco

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Uganda CHAN 2024: Cranes Set to Shine on Home Soil

The Ugandan journey into the CHAN 2024 entered its highpoint when Head Coach Paul Put named his provisional squad-a day to Uganda taking on neighbors Burundi, one of only two important qualifiers that determines the last country to join the others that have represented East Africa at this year’s tournament. Thus, a chance once more exists to cement one’s country reputation in the African continental football at large.

Uganda Cranes: A Tradition of Greatness

Rich in determination, talent, and passion that unites the nation, Uganda’s history in football is an enriching one. The Cranes are no strangers to CHAN, having participated in previous editions with commendable performances. This year, as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda hopes to glitter on home soil. In announcing the provisional squad, the team signals its intention to compete at the top level.

Match Details: Uganda vs. Burundi

Uganda faces a double-header qualifier with Burundi, the first match being on December 26 and the second one being on December 29, 2024, at Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo, a theatre of many stories as far as football is concerned. This is now an excellent opportunity for the country to show its skills while fine-tuning plans ahead of CHAN 2024. However, Burundi will not go easily on that last slot in East Africa, hence the two teams are likely to compete neck and neck in what is expected to be an interesting contest.

Uganda CHAN 2024: A Well-Prepared Squad

The head coach, Paul Put, has left no stone unturned in selecting a well-rounded team. From the cream of some domestic top clubs like Vipers SC, KCCA FC, and SC Villa, the team has represented the best of Ugandan football. The selection has been based on form, experience, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Training and Camp Schedule

The preparations will kick off with non-residential training sessions that start on December 21, 2024. It will involve training in areas such as fitness, tactics, and team cohesion. The squad will enter a residential camp at Nob View Hotel starting on December 25. This high-intensity camp will give players and coaching staff the opportunity to fine-tune strategies and build momentum going into the qualifiers.

Full Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers

Hannington Ssebwalunyo (NEC FC)
Mutwalibi Mugolofa KCCA FC
Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)

Analysis: Goalkeeping is always a very crucial area, and the inclusion of Ssebwalunyo, Mugolofa, and Mutakubwa brings in depth and reliability to this position. These have constantly performed in the domestic league and thus remain well within the running for a starting spot.

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)

Analysis: The backline is flexible and experienced. Players like Gavin Kizito and Derrick Ndahiro bring experience to the team, while newcomers like Gideon Odongo bring fresh energy into the mix. The mix of youth and experience will be very crucial in neutralizing Burundi’s attack.

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)

Analysis: Midfield is supposed to be the engine of any team, and the Uganda selection has been meant to emphasize creativity and control. Allan Okello stands out as a playmaker-one who can determine the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities. The inclusion of Enock Ssebagala and Paul Mbowa will add defensive solidity.

Forwards

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

Analysis: The forward line is filled with goal-scoring talents. Experience and composure are assured with Milton Karisa and Jude Ssemugabi, while youthful talents such as Shafik Kwikiriza bring in unpredictability. This kind of diversity in selection assures Uganda of several ways through which they can unlock Burundi’s defense.

What’s at Stake

The African Nations Championship is a unique tournament because only players playing in their local leagues compete. For Uganda, this is an opportunity to show the world how football development is going on well and how it is growing in recognition internationally. This time, with hosting duties, the Cranes have an added incentive to make sure they put on a good show and thrill their home fans.

CHAN 2024: A Glimpse into the Future

The latest CHAN tournament will be from 1st February to 28th February, 2025. This is a celebration of African football, with raw talents of the continent showcasing their skills. Uganda is preparing for this event, and it is more than the qualifiers, for the reason that the team wants to leave a legacy.

Key Challenges

The reality is that it’s never going to be easy playing facing Burundi, and Burundians are well-known for their stubbornness. They practice the tactic of counterattacks. Uganda needs to know how to hold possession, grab chances through set pieces, and not allow the opponents a single chance, besides being more disciplined in avoiding conceding goals. Under the coaching of Paul Put, who has great experience, such challenges need plenty of tactics.

Fan Support: The 12th Player

The Ugandan fans are passionate about football, and their support has often been a game-changer. It is expected that the Hamz Stadium will be filled with enthusiastic supporters, creating an electrifying atmosphere. This backing can inspire the Cranes to deliver their best performances.