Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put and team captain Khalid Aucho addressed the media on Sunday ahead of their crucial TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifier match against Congo. The game will take place on Monday at Mandela National Stadium.
Both coach and captain expressed confidence in securing maximum points against Congo. Coach Put emphasized that despite limited rest after their previous match against South Africa, the team is ready. “We had a tough game on Friday, but the focus has now shifted to Congo. I believe the players have recovered well, and we’re prepared for tomorrow’s game,” Put said.
Although the Cranes are still a work in progress, Put is optimistic about their growth. He also provided an update on striker Muhammad Shaban, who missed the South Africa game due to injury. “Shaban picked up an injury during our final training session before the South Africa match. We will assess him today and see if he’s fit for tomorrow,” he added.
Speaking about Congo, Put acknowledged their quality, particularly their players competing in major leagues, but stressed that Uganda’s goal is to collect all three points.
Captain Khalid Aucho echoed the coach’s sentiments, noting that despite the tight schedule, the team is determined to make Uganda proud. “We may have had little rest, but our spirits are high, and we’re ready to give everything for the win,” Aucho stated. He also highlighted the importance of their point gained in South Africa as a positive start in their AFCON 2025 qualification journey.
Uganda’s squad has been strengthened by the return of defenders Kenneth Ssemakula and Halidi Lwaliwa, and the team is now focused on securing victory at home.
Uganda is currently in Group K alongside Congo, South Africa, and South Sudan.
