With just 17 days left until the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, the Uganda Cranes are stepping up their preparations as they aim to make a lasting impact on home soil.
Now in their fourth week of training, the national team has shifted gears both in intensity and location.
After three weeks of non-residential morning sessions at Luzira Prisons Grounds, the Cranes transitioned to afternoon drills at MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo; a sign that the countdown to kickoff is hitting a crucial phase.
The 29-man squad, trimmed earlier this month by head coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza, continues to focus on tactical discipline and match fitness, with each session designed to simulate tournament pressure.
Following Tuesday’s session, attacking midfielder Usama Arafat reiterated the team’s commitment and called on fans to turn out in large numbers when Uganda kicks off its campaign at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
“We thank the federation for putting us in camp early enough to prepare for the tournament very well,” Arafat said.
“As you can see, we were put in a tough group, so we have to prepare better and more intensely. We call upon our fans to come through and support us at Namboole. We really need you to rally behind us, and we promise you good football.”
Uganda is pooled in Group C, one of the tournament’s most formidable groups, alongside 2022 CHAN finalists Algeria, regional giants South Africa, as well as Guinea and Niger.
The Cranes will begin their campaign against Algeria on August 4 at Namboole, followed by clashes against Guinea on August 8, Niger on August 11, and South Africa on August 18. All fixtures are scheduled for 8 PM EAT.
Despite a CHAN history that has yet to yield a knockout-stage appearance, Uganda enters this edition with renewed ambition and home-ground advantage.
Another training session is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at Lugogo, as the Cranes edge closer to tournament readiness.
