Uganda’s Pool Cranes remain optimistic at the ongoing All Africa Ultimate Pool Championship in Mpumalanga, South Africa, despite facing their first defeat of the tournament.
The men’s team went down 15–10 to hosts South Africa C in a tense encounter that tested their resolve after an impressive 24–1 win over Namibia B earlier in the day. The result pushed Uganda to third place in the 14-team table following the morning session.
Team captain Rashid Wagaba praised South Africa’s experience but remained upbeat about Uganda’s chances.
“We lost to a more experienced and determined team. They controlled the tempo and punished our mistakes. But we’re not giving up—our focus is now on finishing the group stage strong and making the quarterfinals,” he said.
Head coach Nathan Bwakosya also maintained confidence in the squad’s ability to bounce back.
“This is just one hurdle. The team has the talent and discipline to go all the way,” he said. “We’ve trained hard for this tournament and the spirit in camp remains high. Our goal is to reach the knockouts and fight for the title.”
Uganda still has four more matches to play before the group stage concludes on Wednesday. The top eight teams will qualify for the quarterfinals.
In the women’s category, Uganda experienced a mixed start—losing narrowly 13–12 to Kenya B before responding with a convincing 16–9 victory over Namibia. The women’s team currently sits inside the top seven and remains in contention for a knockout spot.
Coach Bwakosya said both teams are growing stronger with every match. “The exposure our players are getting here is invaluable. It’s preparing them well for the singles competition,” he noted.
The singles phase of the tournament begins Wednesday, with Uganda’s top cueists—including Caesar Chandiga—set to take on some of Africa’s best.
The championship features teams from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Namibia, and will wrap up on Saturday with both team and individual medal presentations.
