Elio Capradossi has made a surprise return to the Uganda Cranes squad ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, joining camp in Cairo, Egypt, on Monday morning.
The Italy-based defender was initially not part of coach Paul Put’s squad named last week, having been ruled out due to an injury. Put confirmed at the time that both Capradossi and Halid Lwaliwa were omitted because of fitness concerns.
However, the AC Cittadella center-back has now rejoined the national team setup, signaling his readiness for selection as Uganda prepares for decisive encounters against Mozambique and Guinea.
His return comes just days after he was listed as an unused substitute in Cittadella’s 2-1 defeat to Serie B leaders Sassuolo over the weekend, an indication that he had recovered enough to make the matchday squad.
Capradossi, a composed and technically sound defender, made his Uganda debut last year in a friendly against Botswana.
However, his international career has been hampered by persistent injuries, which saw him miss key fixtures, including last year’s doubleheader against South Sudan and the final AFCON qualifiers against South Africa and Congo.
With the Cranes aiming to strengthen their defensive setup for their upcoming qualifiers, Capradossi’s availability is a major boost.
Uganda will take on Mozambique this Thursday at Cairo International Stadium before facing Guinea next Tuesday at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
