Uganda Cranes Coach Announces Squad Ahead of Africa Cup of Nations Qualification Games, notable players missing

 

Uganda's national football team, the Uganda Cranes, is gearing up for the crucial  2025 AFCON Qualifier matches against South Africa and Congo, and the head coach has announced the squad that will represent the country in the upcoming matches. The squad selection process is always a significant moment for both the coaching staff and the players, as they prepare to compete against some of the best teams on the continent.

The Uganda Cranes, under the guidance of head coach Paul Put , have been working tirelessly to prepare for the AFCON qualification games. The squad announcement signals the culmination of months of hard work, training sessions, and friendly matches to ensure that the team is in peak condition for the upcoming challenges.

Coach Paul Put  has carefully selected a squad of talented and experienced players, combined with promising young talents, to represent Uganda in the AFCON qualification games. The squad announcement not only highlights the players who will be representing the country but also reflects the coach's strategies, tactics, and vision for the team.

In a surprising turn of events, Patrick Jonah Kakande, the standout player of the 2023/24 Uganda premiere League and the reigning young player of the season, has been omitted from the Uganda.  Kakande's exclusion has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits, who expected the talented youngster to earn a call-up to the national team following his stellar performances in the domestic league.

 

Kakande, a versatile forward who plays for SC Villa  known for his creativity on the ball and astute tactical awareness, has been a standout performer for his club throughout the season. His dynamic playing style, vision, and ability to dictate play from midfield have made him a fan favorite and a player to watch in Ugandan football.

Despite his impressive form and potential, Kakande's absence from the national team squad has sparked debate and speculation within the footballing community. Many fans have voiced their disappointment over the decision, questioning the criteria used in selecting players for international duty.

While the exact reasons for Kakande's exclusion have not been officially disclosed, it is possible that factors such as competition for places, tactical considerations, or the coach's preferences may have influenced the decision. National team selection is a highly competitive process, with coaches having to make difficult choices when assembling a squad from a pool of talented players.

Kakande's omission serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by young players trying to break into the national team setup. Despite his standout performances in the domestic league, he will have to continue to work hard and impress at club level to earn a future call-up to represent his country.