David GOMBE
Uganda Cranes will make their eighth appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations due in Morocco this year.
Uganda secured their AFCON 2025 ticket as runners-up in their qualifying group, finishing just one point behind South Africa.
In Morocco they will be in a tricky Group C alongside West African giants Nigeria, Tunisia and neighbours Tanzania.
During an interview with CAFonline.com, Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put revealed his side’s target at the continental showpiece.
“We want to advance. But first, we demand that our performances reflect modern football, balance, full engagement in all phases, and consistency. If we can win respect among African heavyweights and secure knockout qualification, that’s a job well done.”
On his group C opponents, the Belgian tactician stated that they will respect them but won’t be intimidated.
“Nigeria, they are a perennial powerhouse. There are threats everywhere from their squad with top talent and European experience.Tunisia, are highly organized, technical, tactically astute. They are hard to break down but we will see.”
“For our neighbours Tanzania they are a good mix of energy and familiarity regional derbies are never easy.We will respect all of them, but we are not intimidated. We will give a good account of ourselves.”
Put’s promise to the Uganda Cranes faithfuls
“I promise they will see a Cranes side that plays with heart, unity, and pride. We will fight for every ball, respect the jersey, and leave everything on the field. We may face stronger opponents, but we won’t back down. Our aim is to represent Uganda with dignity, passion and purpose.” He stated
The Cranes’ best-ever finish came in 1978, when they reached the final, losing to Ghana. In 2019 which is their previous appearance, Uganda’s campaign ended at the round of 16 by Saido Mane’s Senegal.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will take place in Morocco between December 21 2025 and January 18 2026; Ivory Coast are reigning champions after a stunning comeback to beat Nigeria in February 2024.
Uganda will kick off its Group C campaign against Tunisia on Tuesday, 23rd December 2025 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympic Annex Stadium, Rabat.
