Uganda Cranes hit by reported allowance dispute as training is skipped in Morocco

Uganda Cranes’ preparations for their opening AFCON group match have reportedly been disrupted after the team failed to conduct a scheduled training session on Saturday in Morocco, amid claims of a player strike over unpaid allowances.

According to reports emerging from the Cranes’ camp, a section of the squad declined to train on Saturday, citing delays in the payment of allowances related to the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The situation has raised concerns just days before Uganda face Tunisia in their Group opener on Tuesday, December 23, at the Rabat Olympic Stadium.

The development comes at a delicate time for head coach Paul Put and his technical team, who had planned to fine-tune tactical details and assess player fitness ahead of the highly anticipated encounter.

Tunisia, one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights, are widely regarded as favourites in the group, making Uganda’s preparation phase even more crucial.

While officials are yet to issue an official statement clarifying the situation, sources suggest discussions are ongoing between team representatives and federation officials to resolve the matter swiftly.

The Uganda Football Association (FUFA) has previously emphasized its commitment to player welfare, but recurring concerns over allowances have historically been a sensitive issue in national team camps across the continent.

On the pitch, the Cranes will be hoping to channel focus back to football, having arrived in Morocco with optimism following a largely encouraging qualifying campaign.

Key players are expected to play vital roles against Tunisia, with discipline and organisation likely to be central to Uganda’s game plan.

With the tournament fast approaching, any prolonged distraction could undermine Uganda’s chances.

All eyes will now be on how quickly the reported impasse is resolved, as the Cranes look to restore unity and momentum ahead of Tuesday’s showdown in Rabat.