Uganda Cranes have finally qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The development was confirmed after South Sudan secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Congo Brazzaville on Thursday evening.

It is party-mood in Kampala than it is in Juba where the clash was played simply because Uganda’s journey to the final tournament has taken a thrilling bend.

South Sudan’s victory means that Congo Brazzaville remain at four points with one game to play hence losing the chance to go past Uganda and South Africa who have 10 and eight points respectively.

Uganda Cranes return to the continent’s biggest football stage after five years of waiting.

It will be the eighth time for Uganda to play in the AFCON after being part of the 1962, 1968, 1974, 1976, 1978, 2017 and 2019.

Uganda will take on South Africa with less pressure knowing the spot in the final tournament is sealed.

However, Paul Put and his troops will still go into the game with a vibe and energy fighting for bragging rights.

Uganda joins Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, DR Congo, Egypt and South Africa which have also qualified for the forthcoming tournament.

Uganda Cranes forward Denis Omedi is optimistic about the upcoming AFCON Qualifier against South Africa at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Friday.

Uganda will play the return leg against Bafana Bafana, having drawn the first leg 2-2 away from home.

Omedi expressed confidence in the team’s ability to secure a victory. “Regarding my role, my primary responsibility is to score goals. Although our league form hasn’t been ideal, I believe that things will improve over time,” he said.

“I’ve been working hard in preparation for the upcoming game, and I’m hopeful that on Friday, we’ll put up a strong fight and I’ll have the opportunity to score another goal for my country,” he added.

Omedi called on Ugandan fans to come out in full force to support the team, encouraging a strong show of unity and patriotism to motivate the players.

“I humbly invite all Ugandans to come and fill the National Stadium. Fan support always gives players the motivation they need to win,” he concluded.

Uganda currently tops Group K with 10 points after four games.

Uganda Cranes Squad

Goalkeepers
Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Defenders
Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia), Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), 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), Geofrey Wasswa (Ethiopian Coffee FC, Ethiopia)

Midfielders
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)

Forwards
Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda), Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica), Derrick, Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden), Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa,Uganda), John Paul Dembe (BK Hacken, Sweden)

Uganda Cranes forward Hakim Kiwanuka is calling for unity as the team prepares to face South Africa at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Friday.

Uganda needs only a point in the remaining two games to secure a spot in the final 2025 AFCON tournament, which will be held in Morocco.

“It’s been a fantastic experience so far. The players have been so friendly. I believe that if we fight as a team, God will bless our efforts,” he said.

“As a team, we have only one target, and that’s getting a victory against South Africa to qualify for the AFCON,” he added.

Calling on Uganda’s passionate supporters, Kiwanuka urged fans to rally behind the team in the crucial clash. “I call upon all the fans to turn up and support the team,” he emphasized.

Uganda currently tops Group K with 10 points after four games.

Uganda Cranes Squad

Goalkeepers
Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Defenders
Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia), Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), 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), Geofrey Wasswa (Ethiopian Coffee FC, Ethiopia)

Midfielders
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)

Forwards
Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda), Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica), Derrick, Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden), Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa,Uganda), John Paul Dembe (BK Hacken, Sweden)

Uganda Cranes forward John Paul Dembe is excited and happy to have received his first call-up to the senior National Team.

With only two games remaining in the campaign, Uganda needs just one point to secure a place in the 2025 AFCON Tournament in Morocco.

The anticipation is high, but the youngster believes he is ready for the big stage if given the chance to showcase his skills.

“I am so happy to receive a national team call-up. I promise to give my best if I am given a chance to play in the upcoming games,” he said.

“I will also work hard to ensure that I contribute to our goal tally so that we qualify for the upcoming AFCON. The experience has been positive, and the system is favorable,” he added.

The youngster has settled in smoothly and praised the supportive environment. “It’s been easy for me to adapt since everyone is friendly, and I believe it’s going to be an unforgettable experience for me and my family.”

Uganda Cranes currently top Group K with 10 points from four games played.

Uganda Cranes Squad

Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia), Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), 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), Geofrey Wasswa (Ethiopian Coffee FC, Ethiopia)

Midfielders: 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)

Forwards: Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda), Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica), Derrick, Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden), Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa,Uganda), John Paul Dembe (BK Hacken, Sweden)

AFCON Qualifiers | Fixture

• Friday, November 15, 2024
• Uganda vs South Africa – 4pm

Uganda Cranes and Vipers SC midfielder Allan Okello said that now nothing matters apart from sealing qualification on Friday, November 15, 2024.

Uganda Cranes are set to lock horns with South Africa in a highly anticipated AFCON Qualifiers encounter on Friday at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.

Uganda need only one point from Friday’s encounter to see that they seal a spot in the final 2025 AFCON Tournament.

“The most important thing on Friday is to secure qualification,” Okello said before adding; “The mood is really positive. Everyone is showing that we need to qualify.”

“The mood is really positive. Everyone is showing that we need to qualify. Even the players who are not in camp have the mindset because we can only achieve this as a team,” he stressed.

Okello has looked decent in the previous games of the campaign thus making three assists in four games played. He promised to empty his tank in the game against South Africa.

“As a player. I am trying to give 100 per cent. The results are not always in our control but on Friday we all need to give 200 per cent because the goal is to go for AFCON.”

Uganda tops Group K with 10 points in four games. They have secured three wins and made one draw. The campaign is left with only two games to come to an end.

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put summoned a squad of 27 players ahead of the AFCON 2025 Qualifiers match against South Africa during a press conference held at FUFA Complex on Wednesday.

The squad includes youngster John Paul Dembe who shone at the recently concluded Cecafa U20 Championship and KCCA FC goalkeeper Mutwalibi Mugolofa.

Uganda will take on South Africa at Mandela National Stadium on Friday, 15th November 2024 before visiting Congo Brazzaville four days later.

Uganda tops Group K with 10 points, two ahead of South Africa while Congo and South Sudan have four and zero points respectively.

“We are aware that CHAN is around the corner and we have games against Burundi next month. So, I needed to have him (Mugolofa) around the set-up and also get training sessions with the goalkeeping coach.

“He has been performing well in the League and maybe next time we will summon another goalkeeper,” Put said of the KCCA goalkeeper.

Uganda Cranes Squad

Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa), Mutwalibu Mugolofa (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC, Uganda), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia), Isaac Muleme (Victoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), 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), Geoffrey Wasswa (Ethiopian Coffee FC, Ethiopia)

Midfielders: 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)

Forwards: Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda), Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica), Derrick, Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden), Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa, Uganda), John Paul Dembe (BK Hacken, Sweden)

Uganda National Football Team (Uganda Cranes) has continued to impress and make positive strides in the FIFA Standings.

In the recently released FIFA standings, Uganda Cranes has climbed three positions after an impressive show in the just concluded AFCON Qualifiers.

According to the standings in September, Uganda Cranes were in the 90th position, but now they have risen to the 87th.

This is due to the back-to-back victories against South Sudan in the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers.

Uganda has a chance to improve its status as they take on South Africa (at home) and Congo Brazzaville (away from home) next month.

Uganda Cranes Westnile Tour

• West Nile Region Select 1-2 Uganda Cranes 

Uganda Cranes secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the West Nile Region Select in a Regional Tour in Yumbe on Sunday evening.

Patrick Mbowa and Denis Kalanzi scored Uganda Cranes’ two goals while Khalid Odagiu pulled one back for the hosts.

Defender Patrick Mbowa fired the Uganda Cranes in the lead after eight minutes as the visitors assumed the driving seat.

The Cranes kept on the front foot but West Nile’s backline stood firm and tall to keep the score line intact.

Four minutes into the second stanza, Kalanzi extended Uganda’s lead as they took full command of the game.

With nine minutes to play, Odagiu pulled one back for the hosts but it was not enough to get back into the game.

How they lined up

Uganda Cranes XI: Edward Kasibante (GK), Hudu Mulikyi, Patrick Mbowa, Farouk Katongole, Amisi Bagwani, Saidi Kyeyune, Hassan Ssenyonjo, Norman Namanya, Denis Kalanzi, Joseph Akandwanaho, Henry Kitegenyi

West Nile XI: Ronald Jakisa (GK), Francis Yikita, Mansur Malish, Swabir Dadik Malish, Khalid Odagiu, Fred Agu, Moses Abiti, Gariel Matata, William Munguromo, David Ochirchan

2025 AFCON Qualifiers | Result

• South Sudan 1-2 Uganda

Uganda Cranes are a step away from the qualification to the forthcoming 2025 AFCON tournament that will be hosted in Morocco.

Uganda secured a 2-1 victory against South Sudan in the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers encounter at Juba Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Uganda had gone two tournaments without playing at the continental stage but the poor spell is close to reach an end with two games to play.

The hosts started the game on the front foot, seeking an early opener, but Uganda’s backline stood tall and firm.

Denis Omedi broke the deadlock in the 18th minute with a simple finish to give the visitors the bragging rights.

But the lead lasted for a little while as South Sudan levelled matters through Yohanna Juma’s brilliant curling effort.

Three minutes later, Tadeo Lwanga pounced on Allan Okello’s delivery into the area but failed to find the target.

In the 28th minute, Okello put to waste a glorious chance. Roger Mato’s long effort forced Mato in a big save and Okello failed to guide home the rebound.

After the long break, Uganda’s gaffer introduced Travis Mutyaba and Timothy Awanyi to replace Okello and Halid Lwaliwa.

In the 58th minute, Uganda came close to regaining the lead with Rogers Mato’s curler but South Sudan’s custodian Juma Jenaro made a full stretch save.

Alfred Leku guided the ball into his net to give Uganda Cranes the lead in the 66th minute. The forward failed to clear away Travis Mutyaba’s delivery.

In the 70th minute, Mutyaba beat several bodies before firing on target but goalkeeper Jenaro punched the ball out for a corner kick.

The victory takes Uganda to 10 points in four games played. They will conclude the campaign with a home fixture against South Africa before they take on Congo Brazzaville away from home.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers | Half Time

• South Sudan 1-1 Uganda

Uganda Cranes held by South Sudan in a 1-1 stalemate in the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers encounter at Juba Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put made three changes introducing Allan Okello, Tadeo Lwanga and Derrick Nsibambi for Travis Mutyaba, Ronald Ssekiganda and Jude Ssemugabi respectively.

The hosts started the game on the front foot, seeking an early opener, but Uganda’s backline stood tall and firm.

Denis Omedi broke the deadlock in the 18th minute with a simple finish to give the visitors the bragging rights.

But the lead lasted for a little while as South Sudan levelled matters through Yohanna Juma’s brilliant curling effort.

Three minutes later, Tadeo Lwanga pounced on Allan Okello’s delivery into the area but failed to find the target.

In the 28th minute, Okello put to waste a glorious chance. Roger Mato’s long effort forced Mato in a big save and Okello failed to guide home the rebound.

It’s 1-1 at halftime as the two sides extend the fight to the second stanza. A win for Uganda Cranes today confirms a slot in the forthcoming 2025 AFCON tournament.