Uganda Prepares for Continental Showcase

Uganda’s national football team, the Cranes, have finalized their 25-player roster for the 2024 TotalEnergies Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza selected a squad combining seasoned campaigners and emerging talent for the tournament, which kicks off later this year.

Goalkeeping Trio Anchors Defense

  • Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC): The 23-year-old earned his spot after standout performances in Uganda Cup matches, including a title-winning campaign with Vipers.
  • Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC): A two-time CHAN veteran and team captain, the 28-year-old brings leadership and big-game experience.
  • Chrispas Kusiima (URA SC): Known for his agility, the 30-year-old returns to URA after a Uganda Cup triumph with Kitara FC.

Defensive Line Mixes Youth and Steel

The backline features 16-year-old KCCA prodigy Lazaro Bwambale, the squad’s youngest member, alongside veteran center-back Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC), a 2022 CHAN participant. SC Villa captain Arnold Odong and versatile KCCA defender Gavin Kizito add tactical flexibility, while NEC FC’s Gideon Odong bolsters the left flank.

Midfield Maestros to Watch

  • Allan Okello (Vipers SC): The 23-year-old captain and creative playmaker headlines the midfield, backed by senior national team experience.
  • Karim Watambala (Vipers SC): At 24, he becomes Uganda’s first three-time CHAN participant, offering tactical discipline.
  • Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA): The cerebral defensive midfielder makes his tournament debut as a potential linchpin.

Tournament Outlook

With 10 players from domestic giants Vipers SC and KCCA, Uganda’s squad balances club cohesion and tournament pedigree. The team aims to leverage home advantage in the Pamoja (Unity) tournament, marking East Africa’s first time hosting the CHAN event since its 2009 inception. Matches will be played across Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi venues.

Tags:

#Uganda Cranes #African Football #CHAN 2024 #Squad Announcement #Co-Host Nations