Uganda Cranes set sights on historic CHAN 2024 knockout breakthrough

Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso has set clear ambitions for the team ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024: to break the jinx and reach the knockout stages for the first time in history.

Speaking on Monday at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala, while unveiling the final 25-man squad, Byekwaso emphasized that surpassing the group stage remains Uganda’s top priority after falling short in the previous six editions.

“We have two main targets, first, to improve our style of play, and second, to qualify from the group. It will not be easy because we are going to face experienced sides, but with extra effort and determination, I believe it is possible,” said Byekwaso.

He expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation and mission.

“If we work very hard, we shall accomplish our goals. I strongly believe we will advance beyond the group stage,” he added.

Byekwaso also named Vipers SC playmaker Allan Okello as team captain, with goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa and defender Rogers Torach as his deputies.

“Okello is a leader. He has played professionally abroad in Algeria and featured on several big stages. Mutakubwa brings enough experience from his time in the national setup, and I have worked with Torach before, he captained my side to the Africa Games final. These are leaders who can inspire the team,” Byekwaso explained.

In his remarks as captain, Okello assured fans that the team is prepared and united in their ambition.

 “As a captain, I want to assure all Ugandans that we are ready. The team has trained hard, everyone is giving one hundred percent, and we are determined to make history by reaching the knockout stage. That’s our collective goal,” he said.

Uganda is drawn in Group C alongside hosts Algeria, South Africa, Niger, and Guinea. The Cranes will kick off their campaign against Algeria on Monday, August 4, at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.

CHAN 2024 is being co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The tournament officially begins this Saturday in Dar es Salaam, where hosts Tanzania will face Burkina Faso in a Group B clash at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Matches will be played across four cities: Kampala (Uganda), Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar (Tanzania), and Nairobi (Kenya). Venues include Mandela National Stadium (Uganda), Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and Amani Stadium (Tanzania), and Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani (Kenya).

Uganda Cranes Final 25 CHAN squad

Goalkeepers: D. Kiggundu, J. Mutakubwa, C. Kusiima

Defenders: N. Mwere, G. Odongo, A. Odong, H. Achai, R. Torach, H. Mukundane, G. Kizito, L. Muhindo.

Midfielders: A. Watambala, J. Sserujongi, E. Ssebaggala, E. Ngonde, A. Okello, P. Kakande, M. Youngman.

Forwards: E. Anyama, I. Ahimbisimbwe, A. Usama, S. Kwikiriza, J. Ssemugabi, Y. Sentamu, R. Mpande.

Head coach: Morely Byekwaso.