Uganda Cranes towering defender Bevis Mugabi Kristofer Kizito, 21, remains optimistic about delivering to the expected standards ahead of the upcoming 2019 Total Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Egypt (June 21st – 19th July).
Mugabi is among the 28 players named by head coach Sebastien Desabre, preparing for the special training camp in Abu Dhabi where they will also play two international friendly matches.
Born in the United Kingdom to Ugandan parents, Mugabi earned his first cap last year during the March 2018 international break against West African opposition Sao Tome and Principe at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
He is currently plying his trade with English League two side Yoevil town.
In an exclusive interview with www.fufa.co.ug, Mugabi notes that this call up is a lifetime opportunity as it makes a big impact in one’s football career.
I never expected this and I was very surprised though had a good season amidst my club being relegated. I was communicating to the coach (Sebastien Desabre) because he followed me as he watched my games online. I am excited for this opportunity to be part of the Uganda National team AFCON squad. At my first call up in March 2018, I enjoyed a lot because it was my first time to play international football and want a more test of it by featuring in a competitive match like a qualifier and a competition like AFCON because that’s when you can actually say you are an international player. I am still waiting for that moment to come thus patiently waiting and training hard. I am not under any pressure amidst the tight competition for a place in the twenty three man final AFCON squad. The competition is healthy because everyone is at his best which is good for the team
Mugabi remains confident alongside the rest of his teammates and many teams will be surprised because Uganda has plenty of talent and the preparations are superb ahead of the competition.
I pity those who underrate Uganda because we shall surprise many, the team has talented and hardworking players, the coach and his entire technical team are awesome together with the wonderful preparations
He also believes that his featuring at AFCON is a door opener to better opportunities.
Mugabi marked a colourful international debut for Uganda Cranes on 24th March 2018 in the 3-1 friendly victory over Sao Tome and Principe before featuring in the goal-less draw against Malawi.
He was invited for the training camp in Niger but did not feature in any game
Tit Bits:
- Full Names: Bevis Kristofer Kizito Mugabi
- Date of Birth: 1st September 1995
- Place of Birth: Harrow, England
- Height: 1.89m (6ft 2in)
- Current Team: Yoevil Town (England)
