The Uganda Cranes CHAN squad kicked off preparations for their qualifying doubleheader against Burundi with a nonresidential training session on Saturday morning at the Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds. Uganda will face Burundi at Nakivubo in the first leg on December 26 before the teams meet again three days later at the same venue, the first leg counting as Burundi's "home" leg.
Head coach Paul Put assisted by Sam Ssimbwa, goalkeeping coach Ibrahim Mugisha and fitness coach Felix Ayobo led 24 players through a light recovery session.
Two players, Samuel Ssenyonjo (Express FC) and Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) were absent due to club commitments but are expected to join the camp soon.
Coach Paul Put’s focus and determination
Speaking after the session, Coach Put underlined the importance of the game against Burundi as a critical step toward CHAN 2024 tournament.
“We have a squad of 26 players, and today 24 reported for training. This first session was focused on recovery since 17 players had matches with their clubs yesterday. I have worked with some of these players before, while others need time to adapt. Once the remaining players join, we’ll shift focus to tactics and more intensive preparations,” Put said.
He emphasized the team's approach to the Burundi clash, adding:
“We are not taking the game against Burundi lightly. It is a serious match because we need positive results to excite our home fans and prepare adequately for CHAN. February 2025 is just around the corner.”
Player commitment
Vipers SC forward Milton Karisa shared his excitement about returning to the national team setup:
“It feels great to be back as it has been a while since I was part of the Cranes. I’m looking forward to representing my country. The game against Burundi will give us a picture of the final tournament, which we will host in February. I urge all Ugandans to support us,” Karisa said.
Day one attendees
The following players participated in the opening session:
Goalkeepers: Hannington Ssebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)
Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC), Gideon Odongo (NEC FC), Moses Aliro (URA FC), Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)
Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC), Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)
Forwards: Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers SC), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC), James Jarieko (NEC FC)
Comments