Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete at the highest level as they prepare for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.
Speaking in the aftermath of the tournament’s group stage draw, Aucho emphasized the team’s determination to make a significant impact.
“Being at AFCON means you’re strong enough to compete with any team. Therefore, we will face all the teams and strive to make Ugandans proud,” Aucho said. “I know my boys. They will give their all.”
The midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of the national team for over a decade, reiterated that Uganda’s objective is not just participation but competition.
“We are not going to Morocco merely to participate. We are going there to compete,” he asserted, underlining the team’s ambition to challenge their Group C opponents: Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania.
Aucho’s leadership and experience will be vital for the Cranes as they navigate a tough group featuring two African football powerhouses in Nigeria and Tunisia, alongside a familiar regional rival in Tanzania.
The 30-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having debuted for Uganda in 2013 during the CECAFA Cup, where he also netted his first international goal against Sudan.
Aucho has previously been part of Uganda’s recent AFCON campaigns, including the 2017 tournament in Cameroon that marked the country’s return to the continental stage after a 38-year absence.
He was also instrumental in the 2019 edition in Egypt, where Uganda progressed to the Round of 16, a feat that reignited hope in Ugandan football.
As one of the senior players in the squad, Aucho’s role in mentoring younger teammates will be critical.
His ability to rally the squad and lead by example is expected to inspire the team to rise to the challenge posed by their group opponents.
