Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Isima Watenga has been diagnosed with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in his right knee following medical assessments conducted after Monday’s friendly against The Gambia in Marrakech.
Watenga sustained the injury early in the second half of the 1-1 draw and was stretchered off in visible discomfort.
According to an official update from FUFA, scans confirmed an ACL injury, which will require surgical intervention upon his return from camp.
The news comes as a major setback for the experienced shot-stopper, who is one of the country’s national team captains.
Watenga was expected to play a key role in the team’s preparations for the upcoming AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
“Following last night’s assessments, Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Isima Watenga has been diagnosed with a right knee ACL injury. He will need surgery upon his return from camp,” read a statement from FUFA.
Watenga’s recovery timeline will depend on the outcome of the surgery and subsequent rehabilitation, but ACL injuries typically require several months of rest and therapy, ruling him out of action for the foreseeable future.
