AFCON 2025: Uganda’s major target is to advance from the group stage – Paul Put

The head coach of Uganda’s Cranes, Paul Put, has opened up on their ambition for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Belgian trainer, who named his squad for the tournament this weekend, has handed a spot to 17-year-old forward James Bogere, one of Uganda’s standout performers at the recent FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, where the team exited in the Round of 16.

Uganda have been drawn in Group C with Nigeria, Tunisia and Tanzania as the competition runs from December 21 to January 18 in Morocco.

Put expressed confidence in his team’s readiness before their departure to Casablanca on Sunday, noting that the group has built strong cohesion over time.

“Our major target will be to qualify from the group and advance to the knockout stage,” added Put.

He added that the 11-day training camp in Morocco, along with two scheduled friendly matches, will be crucial in sharpening the squad and helping them adapt to conditions in the host nation.

Uganda join Tanzania and Sudan as the representatives from the CECAFA Zone for this year’s tournament.