Paul Put, the Cranes’ coach, and the FUFA Technical team have named the squad set to prepare for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Cranes will host Botswana on June 7 and Algeria on June 10 at Namboole Stadium.
The goalkeepers include Isma Watenga, Nafian Alionza, Crispus Kusiima, and Braddy Jeans Wokorach.
The forwards feature Steven Mukwala, Denis Omedi, Shaban Muhammad, Fahad Bayo, Rogers Mato, Patrick Kakande, Umar Lutalo, and Allan Okello.
Coach Paul Put has also called up six midfielders, including Khalid Aucho and Travis Mutyaba. Holding the line, the squad boasts nine solid defenders, ready to fortify the Cranes’ backline.
Paul Put, a 67-year-old Belgian with extensive experience in African football, was officially unveiled as the new head coach of the Cranes on Thursday, November 2nd. He steps into the role following the dismissal of Milutin Micho Sredojevic in September due to a series of disappointing results.
Paul Put’s coaching resume includes stints with national teams such as Burkina Faso, Congo Brazzaville, and the Gambia, as well as managing several prominent clubs across the African continent. His wealth of experience and expertise in African football will be invaluable as he takes charge of the Uganda Cranes.
A significant and historic challenge lies ahead for Put and the Cranes. Uganda has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals. However, with the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted by the USA and Canada, there is a renewed sense of hope and determination within the team and its supporters. Paul Put will be at the helm, aiming to lead the Cranes to the World Cup and make history.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Finals will see an expanded format with 48 participating teams, offering more opportunities for African nations. Africa has been allocated nine automatic slots for this edition, a significant increase from the five slots available in the previous World Cup finals when the tournament had 32 participants.
As Uganda sets its sights on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the nation and its fans are eagerly anticipating a new era under the guidance of Paul Put, with hopes of witnessing their beloved Cranes make their mark on the global football stage.