FUFA President Moses Magogo has expressed confidence in Uganda’s preparations for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), calling on Ugandans to rally behind the national team as the tournament draws near.
Speaking during a visit to the training camp, Magogo emphasized the importance of physically inspecting progress rather than relying solely on reports from the office.
“As hosts, we have a duty to ensure the team is well prepared. I sit on the planning side, but it’s important to come here and see what’s happening on the ground,” he said. “I must say I’m impressed with the energy, focus, and attention to detail from the players and coaches.”
Uganda has been drawn in Group C alongside Algeria, Niger, Guinea, and South Africa. With the tournament kicking off on August 2nd and hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, expectations are high.
Magogo confirmed that trial matches are being arranged before the main competition to help the team sharpen their game. “We’re discussing with our colleagues to organize trial games. These are crucial in preparing the boys and giving them the right test before CHAN begins.”
On player selection, he addressed public concerns over the large provisional squad of 41 players, explaining that such decisions are strictly technical. “People ask why 41 players, but the reality is that those who finish the league aren’t always the ones who show up in camp. Players deal with injuries, mental fatigue, and other issues,” he noted. “No one is dropped because we don’t like them. Coaches make decisions based on performance and fitness.”
Magogo urged fans to trust the technical team and support the players selected. “At the end of the day, only 23 will make the final squad. If you say someone shouldn’t be dropped, it means someone else must go. These are all Ugandans — our brothers, our sons — and they need love and support.”
He concluded with a powerful reminder that not everything can be seen from a distance: “Unless you’re at training, you can’t know who’s struggling with injury or form. Even I saw things today that changed my view. Let’s stand with the team. The boys are ready, they’re motivated — now it’s our turn to back them.”
With just weeks to go, Uganda’s CHAN dream is alive — and the message is clear: support, not criticism, is what the boys need most.
