Taddeo Lwanga of Uganda Cranes - Photo Courtesy Lwanga.
Uganda Cranes midfielder Taddeo Lwanga has expressed his gratitude and reflections following the team's qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Cranes secured their spot as runners-up in Group K with 13 points just one behind group leaders South Africa, marking a return to the continental stage after missing out in 2021 and 2023.
In a heartfelt message, Lwanga acknowledged the challenges faced during the campaign, including a personal error that led to South Africa’s opening goal in Uganda’s 2-0 loss at Namboole. Despite the setback, he emphasised the honor of representing the national team and the collective determination to improve.
“It’s always an honor to wear the Uganda Cranes shirt, and I carry it with great pride and respect. Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to my teammates, the technical team, and FUFA for their immense effort in helping the team qualify for AFCON 2025,” Lwanga stated.
He extended special thanks to the fans, saying, “Finally, to you, the fans, I can't thank you enough for the unwavering support you've shown throughout the qualification campaign. Though there were challenges along the way, where we fell short—myself included—we are determined to improve and do better in the future. Please continue standing with us as we strive for greater success.”
Lwanga, who plays for Rwanda Premier League giants APR FC is one of the few current players who featured in Uganda’s last AFCON appearance in 2019 in Egypt. After a notable absence, he was recalled to the Cranes squad in October by head coach Paul Put delivering impressive performances in the South Sudan doubleheader.
The midfielder’s leadership and experience have been pivotal as Uganda looks ahead to the tournament set to be held in Morocco in 2025. With a mix of experienced presence and youthful talent, the Cranes aim to make a strong impact on the continental stage.
Comments