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CAF
04-08-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Uganda vs Algeria: Host nation aim to break CHAN group-stage curse
Uganda head coach Morley Byekwaso says his side will draw strength from home support as they begin their TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 campaign with a high-stakes clash against Algeria at the Mandela National Stadium on Monday. The fixture is the highlight opener for Group C, one of the tournament's most competitive groups which also includes Niger and South Africa. For Uganda, who have qualified for a record seventh consecutive CHAN finals, the time has come to break their group-stage barrier and chase greater ambitions in front of a passionate home crowd. 'Playing in front of our supporters gives us confidence and we are determined not to let them down,' Byekwaso said. 'As hosts, we must give our best, knowing the fans are behind us. Fortunately, we have no injury concerns and everyone is available. We're in a tough group and must manage each match wisely. We will give our best.' Cranes carry burden of history, but aim for lift-off Despite their consistent presence at CHAN since 2011, Uganda have never progressed beyond the group phase—a statistic the Cranes are eager to rewrite. Their record in opening matches stands at one win, two losses, and three draws. Their sole win came against Burkina Faso in 2014, while losses to Algeria (2011) and Zambia (2018) underscore the challenge they face. This encounter will also mark their fourth CHAN clash against North African opposition. Past meetings—against Algeria (2-0 loss in 2011) and Morocco (3-1 loss in 2014, 5-2 loss in 2020)—have left them without a win. Yet the team remains confident. Captain Allan Okello believes Uganda are ready to rise to the occasion. 'As captain and a player, I feel the responsibility. We need to secure a good result. We want to play as a team and show our commitment. Algeria have skilful and quality players. I believe we are ready to give our best.' With local talents from SC Villa and KCCA FC at the core of the squad, Uganda will rely on gifted 18-year-old winger Travis Mutyaba and experienced centre-back Gift Fred to lead their respective lines. Former national team goalkeeper Dennis Onyango also joins the coaching staff, bringing elite tournament experience and guidance to the technical bench. Algeria: Calm, focused, and built to challenge On the other side of the pitch, Algeria arrive in Kampala as clear contenders, having reached the CHAN 2022 final without conceding a single goal. Coach Madjid Bougherra has retained a strong core from that squad, including top scorer Aimen Mahious and influential captain Zineddine Belaïd, while reinforcing with new local talents. 'Uganda is a welcoming country and it's good to be here, with excellent conditions created for the tournament,' Bougherra said ahead of the match. 'The pressure is on Uganda as hosts, but we are also here to compete at the highest level. I recognise that all participants have quality and any team can win. My team is motivated and prepared for this challenge.' Algeria's strength lies in their organisation and tactical discipline. With a solid backline, a creative midfield engine in Ahmed Kendouci, and consistent control in possession, the North Africans are expected to try and dominate from the outset. Midfielder Ayoub Ghezzala echoed the team's intent: 'We came to this competition to approach every match with seriousness. Our main objective is to win every game, and we will give our utmost to achieve that. Uganda is a solid side, and we expect a strong game from both teams. God willing, we'll be at our best.' Match History: Familiar foes, different setting This will be the second meeting between Uganda and Algeria at CHAN, the last being in their tournament debuts in 2011. In that encounter, Algeria ran out 2-0 winners, with Abdelmoumene Djabou and El Hilal Soudani on the scoresheet in Khartoum. Since then, Algeria have continued to enjoy success in direct encounters, with recent victories over Uganda in both AFCON and World Cup qualifying campaigns. Uganda will be hoping that the atmosphere in Kampala inspires a change in fortunes. Algeria's CHAN record further underscores their credentials. Across 12 CHAN matches, they've lost just once in open play (to Sudan in 2011), kept nine clean sheets, and scored 14 goals. At the 2022 edition, Algeria won all three group matches by identical 1-0 scorelines (vs Libya, Ethiopia, Sudan), eliminated Ivory Coast and Niger in the knockouts, and fell only to Senegal on penalties in the final. Tactical outlook: Cagey opener with fine margins Uganda are likely to adopt a compact shape, defending deep and trying to exploit transitions through speed on the wings. With the likes of Mutyaba offering explosive pace and technical ability, the Cranes could pose problems on the counter. Algeria, conversely, will aim to control the tempo, rotate possession across midfield, and unlock Uganda's backline with creative play. Mahious remains their most lethal weapon in the box, while Kendouci and Belaïd bring balance between attack and defence. Set-pieces, mental composure, and defensive organisation could be the difference-makers in what promises to be a tightly contested affair. What's at stake A win in the opening match could prove pivotal in Group C, where only two teams progress. With Niger and South Africa also in the mix, dropping points early could leave little margin for error. Both coaches have stressed the importance of focus and execution. Uganda will count on home advantage to carry them over the line, while Algeria's experience could prove decisive in crucial moments. Regardless of the outcome, Uganda vs Algeria is set to be one of the defining fixtures of the CHAN 2024 group stage—combining tradition, talent, and tactical intrigue in front of an expectant Kampala crowd.
CAF
29-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Uganda unveil final 25-man squad for historic CHAN 2024 campaign
Published: Monday, 28 July 2025 Uganda have officially named their final 25-man squad for the upcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, as excitement builds ahead of the tournament's return to East Africa. Led by inspirational captain Allan Okello, the Cranes' selection reflects a strategic balance of youth and experience drawn exclusively from the domestic league – a requirement for CHAN eligibility. With co-hosting responsibilities shared between Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, the Cranes are determined to make their mark in front of home fans. Head coach Morley Byekwaso and his technical team at FUFA have placed emphasis on tactical versatility and mental resilience, eyeing a strong run in Group C, where Uganda will face heavyweights Algeria, Guinea, Niger, and South Africa. Uganda kick off their CHAN 2024 journey on August 4 against Algeria, in what promises to be a blockbuster opening for the Cranes. The tournament presents a rare platform for homegrown players to shine on the continental stage, with scouts and clubs closely monitoring standout performances. The final list includes top performers from local clubs like Vipers SC, KCCA FC, SC Villa, and Kitara FC, who dominate the roster with multiple call-ups. Okello, one of Uganda's most technically gifted midfielders, will shoulder the leadership role, supported by key talents such as Yunus Sentamu, Enock Ssebagala, and Shafik Nana Kwikiriza. Having exited early in previous CHAN editions, Uganda's ambition this time is to progress past the group stage and challenge for honours—especially with the home advantage and local support expected to lift their campaign. Below is the full 25-man squad selected for CHAN 2024: Goalkeepers Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 1 Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC) – Shirt No. 18 Chrispas Kusiima (Kitara FC) – Shirt No. 19 Defenders4. Arnold Odong (SC Villa) – Shirt No. 25. Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC) – Shirt No. 36. Gideon Odongo (NEC FC) – Shirt No. 47. Herbert Achai (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 58. Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 159. Hilary Panuel Mukundane (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 1610. Kizito Mugweri Gavin (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 22 11. Rogers Ochaki Torach (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 13 Midfielders12. Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) – Shirt No. 713. Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa) – Shirt No. 814. Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 1115. Reagan Mpande (SC Villa) – Shirt No. 1416. Joseph Youngman Marvin (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 617. Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 2318. Enock Ssebagala (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 2419. Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 25 20. Allan Okello (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 21 (Captain) Forwards21. Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 922. Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa) – Shirt No. 1023. Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 2024. Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC) – Shirt No. 17 25. Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC) – Shirt No. 12
CAF
09-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Know the Coaches – Morley Byekwaso & Fred Muhumuza (Uganda)
Uganda's technical bench for the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) is now led by a dynamic coaching duo: Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza—two of the country's most respected local tacticians with deep roots in Ugandan football. Their appointment signals a new chapter for the Cranes, one built on local knowledge, developmental excellence, and tactical acumen. With both men having extensive experience at club and national youth level, the Uganda FA is betting on continuity, cohesion, and a distinctly Ugandan identity on the touchline. Together, Byekwaso and Muhumuza will aim to guide the Cranes beyond the group stage at a major tournament and restore belief among fans. Fact File Name: Morley Ochama Moses Agge Byekwaso Nationality: Ugandan Age: 48 Current Role: Co-Coach Name: Fred Muhumuza Nationality: Ugandan Age: – Current Role: Co-coach Career Highlights A former Uganda Cranes midfielder, Byekwaso enjoyed a storied playing career with clubs such as KCCA FC, SC Villa, and Express FC before transitioning to management. He rose through the coaching ranks to guide Uganda's U20 side to a historic AFCON final in 2021, and has also led top clubs including KCCA FC and SC Villa to domestic success. Fred Muhumuza, his assistant, is one of Uganda's most respected developmental coaches. Known for his calm presence and tactical discipline, he previously earned Coach of the Tournament honors in the FUFA Drum after guiding Tooro Province to the semifinals. At club level, he helped transform URA FC into top-five contenders and was part of a domestic double-winning campaign at Vipers SC. Together, they bring a balanced mix of flair, structure, and a deep understanding of Uganda's footballing ecosystem. Coaching Style Byekwaso emphasizes structured play, technical discipline, and fast transitional football—values he's honed through years with Uganda's youth and senior sides. Muhumuza complements him with a methodical, results-driven philosophy rooted in team organization and tactical adaptability. Both coaches prioritize youth development, positional awareness, and mental toughness—key pillars in their combined vision for Uganda's progress on the continental stage. Impact on the Team Since taking over, Byekwaso and Muhumuza have stabilized Uganda's performances, building a team identity rooted in local talent and tactical clarity. The Cranes' qualification for CHAN 2024 as hosts has renewed optimism and belief across the country. Their focus on cohesion, team discipline, and giving young players a platform has reshaped the narrative around Uganda's national team. Fun Fact Byekwaso is a former Uganda Premier League winner as both player and coach. Muhumuza once led a school team, St. Leo's College Kyegobe , to the East African Games for the first time in their history. Both coaches hold CAF A coaching licenses and have committed to developing a long-term technical blueprint for Ugandan football. Conclusion As Uganda prepares for CHAN 2024, the synergy between Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza could prove decisive in the Cranes' quest for continental recognition.
CAF
09-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Uganda name 29-man CHAN squad as Onyango joins technical team
Published: Wednesday, 09 July 2025 Uganda's technical team has reduced its CHAN 2024 squad to 29 players, with co-head coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza narrowing down their options ahead of the continental showpiece in August. The announcement follows an intensive training session held at the Prisons Ground in Luzira, as the Cranes ramp up preparations for their seventh appearance in the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN). The tournament will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from 2–30 August 2025. Former Cranes captain Denis Onyango has temporarily joined the technical bench to assist with goalkeeping duties during the squad's camp. The Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper, back home on offseason break, is expected to provide vital mentorship to Uganda's four goalkeepers in camp—Joel Mutakubwa, Crispas Kusiima, Denis Kiggundu, and Hannington Sebwalunyo. This trimmed squad is not final but represents a key phase in selection, with the coaching duo set to announce the final 23-man list before the tournament kickoff. The dropped players include Vipers SC captain Milton Karisa, who hasn't recovered from injury, as well as Paul Mucureezi, Enock Walusimbi, Emmanuel Wasswa, and David Owori. Despite the exclusions, the group still retains key figures such as Allan Okello, Yunus Sentamu, Patrick Kakande, Jude Ssemugabi, and Gavin Kizito, who are expected to play major roles if selected for the final tournament squad. Uganda, drawn in Group C, face a stern test with Algeria, Guinea, Niger, and South Africa all in the same pool. The Cranes open their campaign against Algeria on 4 August at Namboole Stadium. Having never advanced beyond the group stage in six previous attempts, Uganda will be hoping home advantage and a well-prepared squad help them rewrite the history books. Uganda Cranes – CHAN 2024 Trimmed 29-Man Squad: Goalkeepers Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC) Crispas Kusiima (Kitara FC) Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC) Hannington Sebwalunyo (NEC FC) Defenders Gavin Kizito (KCCA FC) Lazaro Bwambale (KCCA FC) Herbert Achayi (Express FC) Gideon Odong (NEC FC) Rogers Torach (Vipers SC) Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC) Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC) Arnold Odongo (SC Villa) Ronald Otti (Kitara FC) Midfielders Shamir Kimwero (NEC FC) Marvin Youngman (Vipers SC) Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC) Elvis Ngondwe (SC Villa) Allan Okello (Vipers SC) Patrick Kakande (SC Villa) Jerome Kirya (BUL FC) Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC) Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC) Forwards Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC) Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC) Usama Arafat (KCCA FC) Shafik Nana Kiwikiriza (KCCA FC) Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) Yunus Sentamu (Vipers SC) Reagan Mpande (SC Villa)
