Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has unveiled his starting lineup for the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying clash against South Africa, set to take place tonight at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Isima Watenga will start in goal, anchoring a defense that includes Kenneth Ssemakula, Bevis Mugabi, Timothy Awany, and Aziizi Kayondo. The backline will look to stifle South Africa’s attacking threats while providing a solid foundation for the midfield and forwards.
Team captain Khalid Aucho will lead from the center of the park, partnering with Taddeo Lwanga in midfield. Their defensive and playmaking abilities will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game.
In attack, Allan Okello, Rogers Mato, Denis Omedi, and Jude Ssemugabi will form a dynamic quartet tasked with finding the back of the net and capitalizing on opportunities against Bafana Bafana.
Full Starting XI
Goalkeeper
Isima Watenga
Defenders
Kenneth Ssemakula
Aziizi Kayondo
Bevis Mugabi
Timothy Awany
Midfielders
Taddeo Lwanga
Khalid Aucho (C)
Forwards
Rogers Mato
Denis Omedi
Jude Ssemugabi
Allan Okello
Substitutes
Nafion Aliozi
Geafrey Wasswo
Bobosi Byaruhanga
Travis Mutyaba
Calvin Kobuye
Gavin Kizito Mugweri
Halidi Lwaliwa
Ronald Ssekigondo
Hakim Kiwanuka
Charles Lukwago
Isaac Muleme
Uganda, already through to the 2025 AFCON in Morocco following South Sudan’s victory over Congo, will be aiming to top Group K with a win.
Coach Paul Put has emphasized the importance of the match for FIFA rankings, with a victory promising a more favorable draw in the AFCON group stage.
Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM, and the Cranes will be counting on home support to propel them to a strong finish in the qualifiers.
