The Uganda Cranes have been dealt a double blow ahead of their upcoming international friendlies against Chad and Morocco, with two key players, Rogers Mato and Aziz Kayondo, ruled out through injury.
Both players picked up knocks over the weekend while turning out for their respective clubs in Europe, and will now miss the final international window before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Mato, who has been in fine form for Vardar in North Macedonia, found the back of the net as his side cruised past Tikves 3–1 on Sunday.
However, the pacey forward sustained an injury during the match and has since been sidelined.
His absence will also keep him out of a few upcoming league fixtures.
In the Czech Republic, left-back Aziz Kayondo suffered a concussion during Slovan Liberec’s emphatic 6–0 victory over ten-man Karviná.
The defender has been a mainstay in Paul Joseph Put’s setup, offering both defensive solidity and attacking width down the flank.
Losing both Mato and Kayondo is a setback for the Cranes, especially as Put looks to fine-tune his squad ahead of next month’s AFCON.
The Belgian tactician will be hoping their injuries are short-term, with the continental tournament fast approaching.
The Cranes’ clash with Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked side, was expected to serve as a true test of Uganda’s readiness and resilience.
However, with two of the team’s most consistent performers sidelined, Put will now have to reshuffle his pack and give opportunities to other players eager to make their mark.
