The Uganda Cranes are prepared to step onto Africa’s grandest football stage this Tuesday as they face Tunisia in their opening Group C match of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.
Returning to the continental showpiece with a point to prove, the Cranes enter the tournament backed by an intensive preparation period and a squad that blends veteran leadership with youthful energy.
Head coach Paul Put expressed high spirits ahead of the fixture, noting that the tournament serves as a massive platform for the players to showcase their talent to the world.
“It is a big and a good opportunity, because you are going to play not only for the African continent, but also for the whole world who watch this tournament,” Put stated. “I think we have the motivation, and we are going to do our level best to give a good performance.”
The squad is captained by veteran midfielder Khalid Aucho, who is making his third AFCON finals appearance. Put highlighted that the team’s strength lies in its balance of local talent and experienced overseas-based players, emphasizing that “collective responsibility” will be the deciding factor.
Uganda was the first team to arrive in Morocco, establishing their camp as early as December 8th. Despite the staggered arrival of some foreign-based players, the early start has allowed the team to acclimate and build chemistry.
The Cranes received a significant fitness boost ahead of the Tuesday clash. Coach Put confirmed that Mato, Jude, and Jordan, who had been nursing minor concerns following recent friendlies—including a 2-2 draw against AS FAR Rabat—have all been cleared to play.
The task ahead is formidable. Tunisia arrives in Morocco boasting a long unbeaten run and a reputation as one of the continent’s most consistent powerhouses. However, the Cranes’ camp remains unfazed by statistics.
“To be honest, I am not busy with these kinds of things,” Put remarked regarding Tunisia’s record. “It is a big team with very good players. But also we have a good team.”
Uganda finds itself in a challenging Group C, which also features West African giants Nigeria. A positive result against Tunisia is seen as vital for the Cranes’ ambitions to progress to the knockout stages.
As the nation rallies behind them, the Uganda Cranes are determined to translate their weeks of preparation into a performance that resonates far beyond the borders of Morocco.
