Uganda Eye Further AFCON Progress with Togo Double Header
Uganda’s national team, the Cranes, head into their upcoming double-header against Togo with growing confidence and continental ambitions firmly in sight. After a promising start to their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, Milutin “Micho” Sredojević’s side will be looking to build on their early momentum when they face Emmanuel Adebayor’s Togo side in Kampala on October 10, before travelling to Lomé for the reverse fixture four days later.
The Cranes began their Group E journey with a credible 1-1 draw away to Ghana in Kumasi, before sealing an impressive 2-0 home win over Guinea. The results have ignited hopes of a return to Africa’s biggest stage—a tournament Uganda last appeared in back in 1978.
Head coach Sredojević has announced a 26-man squad for the critical encounters. The team features a blend of domestic talent and overseas-based professionals, including two players plying their trade in Asia and East Africa: Moses Oloya of Vietnam’s Binh Duong and Isaac Isinde of Ethiopian side Dedebit.
Goalkeeper Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns) will be expected to lead from the back, bringing experience and stability to the defensive line. He is joined by fellow keepers Robert Odongkara (St. George), Ismail Watenga (Vipers SC), and Benjamin Ochan (SCVU).
The defensive unit includes seasoned campaigners such as Andrew Mwesigwa (Ordabasy) and Godfrey Walusimbi (Gor Mahia), alongside young talents like Savio Kabugo and Richard Kasagga. The midfield is bolstered by the experienced Tonny Mawejje (Valur, Iceland) and the energetic Moses Oloya, with support from locally-based players such as Khalid Aucho (Tusker) and Brian Majwega (KCC).
In attack, Uganda will rely on Geofrey Massa (University of Pretoria), who remains a consistent goal threat, and rising star Yunus Sentamu (AS Vita). Emmanuel Okwi (Simba SC) and Brian Umony (KCC) are also part of a forward line that combines power, pace, and technical ability.
With four points from their opening two fixtures, Uganda sit in a promising position in the group. However, Togo—despite their slow start—remain a threat with the likes of Adebayor capable of turning games on their own. The Cranes will therefore need to maintain their focus and discipline across both fixtures if they are to continue their march toward Morocco 2015.
Uganda Squad for AFCON Qualifiers vs Togo:
Goalkeepers:
Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns), Robert Odongkara (St. George), Ismail Watenga (Vipers), Benjamin Ochan (SCVU)
Defenders:
Denis Iguma (SCVU), Martin Kizza (Tusker), Godfrey Walusimbi (Gor Mahia), Fred Nkata (SC Villa), Murushid Jjuuko (SCVU), Andrew Mwesigwa (Ordabasy), Isaac Isinde (Electricity), Savio Kabugo (SCVU), Richard Kasagga (KCC)
Midfielders:
Allan Kyambadde (Vipers), Geofrey Baba Kizito (Gor Mahia), Khalid Aucho (Tusker), Moses Oloya (Binh Duong), Tonny Mawejje (Valur), Luwagga Kizito (Sporting Covilha), Brian Majwega (KCC), Baker Lukooya (Kiira Young)
Forwards:
Geofrey Massa (University of Pretoria), Brian Umony (KCC), Yunus Sentamu (AS Vita), Emmanuel Okwi (Simba), Karim Ndugwa (SC Villa), Dan Sserunkuma (Gor Mahia)
The double clash with Togo will be pivotal. For Uganda, it is not just about points—it is about belief and the opportunity to make a long-awaited return to Africa’s elite football competition.
