The Uganda Cranes CHAN team held its first non-residential training session on Saturday morning at the Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The team consisting of 24 players trained under the keen supervision of Head Coach Paul Put Joseph assisted by Sam Ssimbwa with Ibrahim Mugisha in charge of goalkeepers and Felix Ayobo serving as the fitness coach.
Two players Samuel Ssenyonjo of Express FC and Jude Ssemugabi of Kitara FC were absent due to club commitments.
Coach Paul Put emphasized that neither he nor the players would underestimate the upcoming game against Burundi as it serves as an important precursor to CHAN and an opportunity to bring joy to the fans.
‘We have a squad of 26 players and today 24 reported for training with two still tied up with their clubs. This first session focused on recovery since 17 players had matches with their clubs yesterday. I have worked with some of these players before and others need time to adapt. Once the remaining players join us, we will shift our focus to tactics and more intensive preparations. Said Coach Put before adding
‘We are not taking the game against Burundi lightly, It is a serious match because we need positive results to excite our home fans and to adequately prepare for CHAN. February 2025 is just around the corner.’
Meanwhile, Player Milton Karisa expressed his excitement about returning to the national team and promised to deliver a strong performance for his country.
‘It feels great to be back as it has been a while since I was part of the Cranes. I am looking forward to representing my country. The game against Burundi is will give us a picture of the final tournament which we will host in February. I urge all Ugandans to support us.’
Players who reported for Day One training session.
Goalkeepers: Hannington Ssebwalunyo (NEC FC), Mutwalibi Mugolofa (KCCA FC), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)
Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (KCCA FC), Gideon Odongo (NEC FC), Moses Aliro (URA FC), Derrick Ndahiro (Vipers SC), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC), Arnold Odong (SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)
Midfielders: Joel Sseunjogi (KCCA FC), Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC), Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Paul Patrick Mbowa (Vipers SC)
Forwards
Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa, Milton Karisa (Vipers SC),Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC), Isaac Ogwang (Police FC), James Jarieko (NEC FC)
