When the floodlights come on in Morocco on Tuesday night, Uganda will once again step onto Africa’s grandest football stage with a familiar blend of hope, belief and quiet determination.
The Uganda Cranes open their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign against Tunisia in Group C, a fixture that immediately tests their resolve against one of the continent’s most consistent football nations. It is a demanding start, but one the Cranes embrace as part of their long-awaited return to the AFCON finals.
For head coach Paul Put, the moment represents more than just an opening match. It is a chance for Uganda to reintroduce itself to the African and global football audience.
“It is a big and a good opportunity,” Put says. “You are going to play not only for the African continent, but also for the whole world who watch this tournament. We have the motivation, and we are going to do our level best to give a good performance.”
A Team Built on Balance and Belief
Uganda’s journey to Morocco has been marked by deliberate preparation and careful squad building. The Cranes were the first team to set up camp in Morocco, beginning training on December 8 — an early start that signalled intent, even as foreign-based players arrived later due to competition regulations.
Rather than disrupting preparations, the extended camp strengthened cohesion and sharpened focus.
“Unfortunately, we were not complete at the beginning, but we have been preparing from the 8th,” Put explains. “The players are really ready to play this tournament. Everybody is ready.”
The squad itself reflects a philosophy Put has steadily refined since taking charge — a balance of seasoned internationals, rising young talents and locally-based players who understand the pride of wearing the national shirt.
Midfielder Khalid Aucho, preparing for his third AFCON finals, captains the side and embodies that blend of experience and leadership. Around him is a group expected to share responsibility, regardless of who starts.
“The players who start must be focused and motivated,” Put says, “and the players on the bench must be ready to make a difference.”
Overcoming Setbacks, Sharpening Focus
Uganda’s final build-up was briefly clouded by minor injury concerns following friendly matches, but the Cranes arrive at the tournament fully fit. Put confirmed that Mato, Jude and Jordan have all recovered and are available for selection, offering depth and flexibility ahead of the opener.
It is a timely boost as the Cranes prepare for a physically and tactically demanding contest.
Respect Without Fear
Tunisia arrive in Morocco carrying a long unbeaten run and the weight of history as one of Africa’s most successful football nations. Their pedigree is unquestioned, but Uganda are refusing to be overawed.
Put insists that statistics and past records have no place in the dressing room.
“We are facing Tunisia, who did not lose for many games. It is a big team with very good players,” he says. “But also, we have a good team.”
That quiet confidence defines Uganda’s approach — respectful, but unafraid.
Setting the Tone
With Nigeria also lying in wait in Group C, the opening match against Tunisia carries added significance. A positive result would not only boost morale but send a clear message that Uganda’s return to AFCON is about more than participation.
As Morocco hosts Africa’s finest and millions watch across the continent and beyond, the Uganda Cranes step forward under the lights with a simple aim: to compete, to believe, and to announce themselves once again on Africa’s biggest football stage.
