With the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations set to kick off in June, Uganda’s national team, the Cranes, is beginning to take shape. Head coach Sébastien Desabre has unveiled an initial list of 19 players who could feature for the country in the upcoming continental tournament.
Uganda has been drawn into Group A, where they will face host nation Egypt, DR Congo, and Zimbabwe. This opening squad reflects a mix of domestic talent and players plying their trade abroad, aimed at giving Desabre options in every position.
The goalkeeping department includes Charles Lukwago of KCCA and James Alitho from URA FC, both expected to compete for the starting spot.
The defensive line features a combination of experience and youth. Bevis Mugabi of Yeovil Town in England leads the group alongside domestic players Brian Majwega (Maroons FC), Godfrey Walusimbi (currently without a club), Awany Timothy (KCCA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC), and Mujuzi Mustafa (Proline FC).
In midfield, Uganda will rely on players capable of both defensive stability and creative distribution. The midfield roster includes Khalid Aucho (Churchill Brothers, India), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (without a club), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC), Allan Okello (KCCA FC), and Moses Waiswa (Vipers SC).
Upfront, the Cranes have attacking options in Daniel Isiagi (Al-Nassr FC, Egypt), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA), Balinya Juma (Police FC), Henry Patrick Kaddu (KCCA), and Joel Madondo (KJSSS FC). These forwards bring a mix of pace, finishing ability, and tactical awareness that Desabre will look to exploit against strong group-stage opponents.
This preliminary squad gives Uganda a solid foundation as they prepare for the challenges of Group A, balancing domestic familiarity with international experience. Desabre will continue to assess players ahead of the final squad announcement, aiming to select the team best equipped to compete in Egypt and potentially advance beyond the group stage.
