Uganda has released a 30-player squad in preparation for their crucial double-header against Burkina Faso in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers. Coach Micho Sredojevic, keen to cast a wide net, has included a mix of experienced players and fresh faces to ensure a thorough build-up ahead of the two matches scheduled for the 3rd and 4th rounds of the qualifiers.
The squad includes key players such as goalkeeper Dennis Onyango, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa, and veteran defender Joseph Ochaya, along with striker Geofrey Massa. These experienced players, along with several other regulars, form the core of the team that will battle Burkina Faso for a spot in the 2017 CAN tournament in Gabon.
Currently, Uganda leads their qualifying group with six points, having won their opening two matches. Burkina Faso is in second place with three points, tied with Botswana, while Comoros sits at the bottom with zero points. Uganda’s strong start to the qualifiers has given them a solid platform, but coach Sredojevic knows that the double confrontation against Burkina Faso will be pivotal in confirming their place in the competition.
The goalkeeping department sees Dennis Onyango as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. The 31-year-old Onyango, who has been a mainstay for both club and country, is joined by Robert Odongkara (St George, Ethiopia), James Alitho (Vipers), and Salim Jamal (El Merriekh, Sudan) to provide depth and competition for the starting spot.
In defense, Uganda boasts a solid lineup of experienced players such as Joseph Ochaya, Isaac Muleme, and Murushid Jjuuko. These defenders, alongside Denis Iguma, Isaac Isinde, and Timothy Awanyi, will be tasked with keeping Burkina Faso’s attackers at bay. The squad’s defensive strength is crucial to Uganda’s ambitions, especially with the threat of players like Burkina Faso’s Bertrand Traoré and Jonathan Pitroipa.
Uganda’s midfield is packed with both creativity and industry. Mike Azira (Colorado Rapids, USA), Aucho Khalid (Gor Mahia, Kenya), and Moses Oloya (Becamex Binh Duong, Vietnam) bring experience from top leagues, while younger players like Farouk Miya (Standard Liege, Belgium) and William Luwagga Kizito (Feirense, Portugal) provide fresh legs and flair. Yassar Mugerwa (Orlando Pirates, South Africa) and Tonny Mawejje (Knattspyrnufélagið Þróttur, Iceland) will also play pivotal roles in controlling the midfield and supplying the forwards with quality service.
Up front, Uganda is well-stocked with attacking talent. Geofrey Massa, a veteran striker with vast international experience, leads the charge alongside Emmanuel Okwi (Sonderjsyke, Denmark) and Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers). Hamis ‘Diego’ Kiiza (Simba, Tanzania), Ceasar Okhuti (KCCA), and Edrisa Lubega (Proline) provide further options for coach Sredojevic, ensuring that Uganda has a potent attacking force to break down Burkina Faso’s defense.
With a strong blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talents, Uganda will be determined to maintain their top spot in the group. Their upcoming clashes with Burkina Faso are crucial in securing qualification for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, and the squad’s depth and quality give them a solid chance to achieve that goal.
