As the Uganda Cranes prepare to learn their group stage opponents for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, captain Khalid Aucho has delivered an emotional message to fans, thanking them for their unwavering support and urging them to rally behind the team as they return to Africa’s biggest football stage.
The official draw for the tournament, which runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, will take place on Monday, January 27.
Uganda’s qualification marks a major milestone for the team, ending a six-year absence from the competition since their last appearance in Egypt in 2019.
Addressing Uganda’s passionate fanbase in an interview with CAF, Aucho expressed gratitude for their role in the team’s success.
“To our fans, we couldn’t have done it without your unwavering support. Your energy, enthusiasm, and encouragement have driven us to push beyond our limits. We are honored to represent Uganda on the biggest stage in African football. Let’s make our nation proud. Let’s show the continent what we’re capable of,” he said.
Aucho, a veteran of Uganda’s AFCON campaigns in 2017 and 2019, emphasized the importance of seizing the moment, particularly for the younger players who will be making their tournament debuts.
He praised the team’s collective effort in securing qualification under the guidance of head coach Paul Put.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our team. For some of my teammates, this will be their first time playing in the AFCON. I can only imagine the excitement and nerves they must be feeling. To them, I say: ‘This is your moment! Give it your all and enjoy the experience. We are proud to have you represent our nation,’” Aucho added.
The Uganda Cranes’ return has been met with widespread enthusiasm, particularly as the country gears up to co-host the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August 2025 and the AFCON in 2027.
The Cranes will hope to build on their historic best performance in 1978 when they finished as runners-up to Ghana.
