Uganda Cranes Arrive in Congo for Final AFCON 2025 Qualifier Against Congo National Team

*By John Kusolo*

*Brazzaville, Congo – November 17, 2024*

The Uganda Cranes have touched down in Brazzaville ahead of their crucial final fixture in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Congo's national team. The game is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024, and is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter. Uganda is looking to close their qualification campaign on a high note, having already secured their spot in the tournament.

The team landed at Maya Maya International Airport on Sunday morning and will reside at the Grand Lancaster Hotel in Brazzaville. Upon arrival, the Cranes immediately began acclimatizing to the local environment and will hold a gym session at 7 pm EAT to fine-tune their readiness for the match.

Uganda Cranes’ Road to the Final Fixture

Uganda sits second in Group K with 10 points, trailing group leaders South Africa by a single point. The Cranes sealed qualification to AFCON 2025 on Thursday before facing South Africa on Friday in a match that showcased their competitive spirit.

Despite having their ticket to the tournament confirmed, the Cranes are determined to finish the campaign strongly. Captain Khalid Aucho, speaking to the media before the team’s departure, emphasized their commitment to securing a victory.

"We understand the importance of this game and we are committed to giving our best to ensure we end the campaign on a high note," said Aucho.

Head coach Paul Put Joseph has assembled a robust 26-man squad for the fixture, reflecting the team’s ambitions to finish the qualifiers on a strong note. The squad includes experienced players and emerging talent, with a balance across all departments.

Goalkeepers

Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa)

Charles Lukwago (Venda FC, South Africa)

Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia)

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, Cyprus)

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, North Macedonia)

Steven Mukwala Dear (Simba SC, Tanzania)

Calvin Hope Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden)

Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa, Uganda)

John Paul Dembe (BK Hacken, Sweden)

The technical bench, led by head coach Paul Put Joseph, includes assistant coach Sam Ssimbwa Bamweyana, goalkeeping coach Oste Gerry Djrk, and performance manager De Wilde Sven Lydia Louis. The traveling contingent also features a fitness coach, sports doctor, video analyst, and other essential staff to ensure the team is well-prepared both physically and mentally.

Despite playing on foreign soil, the Cranes are motivated to deliver a stellar performance. Their preparation included an indoor recovery session on Saturday afternoon to enhance their physical and mental sharpness. The team’s arrival in Congo underscores their commitment to maintaining focus and discipline.

*Match Details*

Fixture: Congo vs. Uganda Cranes

Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Venue: Brazzaville, Congo

As the Cranes gear up for the encounter, fans back home and across the region will be eagerly anticipating a strong finish to the qualification campaign. Uganda’s qualification for AFCON 2025 reflects the team’s growth and resilience under the current management.

With just days to go, the Uganda Cranes are poised to show why they are one of the region’s most formidable teams. Stay tuned for updates on this thrilling match!