In preparation for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers match against Algeria, the Ugandan national football team, commonly known as the Uganda Cranes, has announced the official squad that will represent the country. The match is scheduled to take place on June 18, 2023, at the Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon.
Under the guidance of their experienced coach, Micho, Uganda aims to secure a victory against the formidable Algerian side. The team will be boosted by a friendly game against the Democratic Republic of Congo on June 14, which will serve as a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and assess the readiness of the players.
The Ugandan squad features a balanced selection across all positions, with a total of 23 players. The team comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, five midfielders, and seven forwards. Coach Micho has carefully considered each player’s form, experience, and tactical suitability in order to create a formidable lineup capable of taking on Algeria.
While Uganda currently sits in third place in Group F with four points, on par with Tanzania, Algeria leads the group with an impressive 12 points. At the other end of the table, Niger is positioned at the bottom with two points. The upcoming match against Algeria will be crucial for Uganda to secure a better position in the group standings.
In the squad announcement, Coach Micho made some notable exclusions. Danish-based midfielder Moses Opondo and goalkeeper Ismail Watenga, who plays for Marumo Gallants in South Africa, were among the players dropped from the final squad. Although difficult decisions, the coach’s choices are intended to maximize the team’s chances of success and bring together a cohesive unit.
Uganda’s fans are eagerly anticipating the encounter with Algeria, recognizing the importance of securing a positive result. The players themselves are fully committed to representing their nation with pride and determination, striving to make a mark on the African football stage.
The Uganda Cranes have a strong legacy in African football, and they will be looking to build upon their past successes and create new milestones. With the backing of their loyal supporters and the guidance of Coach Micho, the team is poised to give their all on the field and showcase the talent and resilience of Ugandan football.
Squad
Goalkeepers:
Salim Omar Magoola (Richards Bay FC, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (St. George FC, Ethiopia), Nafian Alionzi (URA FC, Uganda)
Defenders:
Kenneth Semakula (SC Villa, Uganda), Gavin Kizito (Al Ittihad SC, Egypt), Abdu Azizi Kayondo (CD Leganes, Spain), Joseph Ochaya (Al Makwloon Al Arab, Egypt), Halid Lwaliwa (FK Bregalnica, North Macedonia), Gift Fred (SC Villa, Uganda), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA FC, Uganda), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC, Uganda)
Midfielders:
Khalid Aucho (Yanga SC, Tanzania), Bobosi Byaruganga (FC Austin, USA), Siraje Ssentamu (Vipers SC, Uganda), Moses Waiswa (KCCA FC, Uganda), Isma Mugulusi (Makedonikos FC, Greece)
Forwards:
Milton Karisa (Vipers SC, Uganda), Travis Mutyaba (SC Villa, Uganda), Rogers Mato (KCCA FC, Uganda), Faruku Miya (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey), Emmanuel Okwi (Erbil SC, Iraq), Fahad Bayo (MFK Vyškov, Czech Republic), Richard Bassangwa (Wadi Degla SC, Egypt)
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