AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Uganda name 30-man squad for Botswana clash as Aucho prepares for farewell

Uganda head coach Paul Put has named a 30-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Botswana, with captain Khalid Aucho set for a farewell appearance on home soil following his retirement from international football.

The Cranes will host Botswana on 14 November before travelling for the return fixture on 17 November as they continue their qualifying campaign for the continental tournament.

Aucho, who has been a key figure in Uganda’s midfield, is included in the squad for what is expected to be his final appearance for the national team in front of home supporters.

The midfielder’s inclusion provides an opportunity for the Cranes to honour his contribution to Ugandan football as he prepares to bring his international career to a close.

Put has selected players from several leagues across Africa, Europe and North America, reflecting the international spread of Uganda’s squad.

South Africa-based goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, is among the four goalkeepers named, alongside Kingdom Osayi, David Lukwago and David Udoh Akpan.

The defensive unit includes Toby Sibbick of Burton Albion, Kenneth Semakula of Al Ittihad Alexandria Club, Hilary Mukundane of Vipers SC and Herbert Achayi of KCCA FC.

In midfield, Aucho will be joined by Baba Alhassan, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Allan Oyirwoth, Joseph Sseremba and Abdoulaye Sissako.

The forward line features Allan Okello, James Bogere, Travis Mutyaba, Kelvin Boateng, Rogers Mato, Arnold Vula, Sadam Masereka, Denis Omedi and Frank Ssebubufu.

The two matches against Botswana will be important for Uganda as they seek to strengthen their position in the race to qualify for the 2027 AFCON, which will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

For the Cranes, the November fixtures will also carry added significance as they prepare to bid farewell to Aucho, one of the country’s established international players.