Uganda Cranes strikers Muhammad Shaban and Denis Omedi are brimming with confidence ahead of the country’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers opening clash against South Africa.
The match is set to take place on Friday, September 6, at 7 PM EAT, at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.
Both players, who have been in impressive form, are crucial to Uganda’s aspirations of securing a spot in the upcoming tournament that will take place in Morocco.
Shaban, who currently plays for Libyan side Al Hilal Benghazi, expressed his confidence stating, “Nowadays, football is not all about names; it’s about who gives it their all. We’re going to see that we give it our all and get three points against South Africa on Friday.”
The striker showcased his scoring prowess in June this year by netting Uganda’s lone goal in a World Cup qualifying match against Botswana at Namboole.
Kitara foward Denis Omedi, who recently wowed fans with a stunning rabona goal in the FUFA Super 8 clash against KCCA, echoed Shaban’s sentiments.
“South Africa is just a team like us, and their players are just like Uganda’s players. They may be a big team, but we have come to play them,” he remarked.
Omedi also assured fans that the squad is in excellent shape, also emphasizing the importance of form and seizing opportunities for positive results.
The two strikers, part of the 28-man provisional squad selected by Coach Paul Put, will be pivotal as the Uganda aims to start the qualifiers on a strong note.
Uganda Cranes find themselves in Group K alongside South Africa, Congo, and South Sudan.
After the crucial encounter with South Africa, the team will return to Uganda on Saturday, September 7, before hosting Congo at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday, September 9.
With only the top two teams from each group qualifying for the 2025 AFCON, which will be held from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, the stakes are high, but Shaban and Omedi are confident.
