The Uganda Cranes held their first training session today at Namboole Stadium as the team prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 Pamoja Qualifier match against Botswana.
The session took place following the arrival of the first batch of players, nine in total, at the Marriott Hotel on Sunday, ahead of Saturday’s game at Hoima City Stadium.
Among the arrivals was midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga, who expressed delight over his return to the squad and voiced hope for earn his first minutes at the new Hoima Stadium during Uganda Cranes’ second appearance at the venue.
“First of all, I thank the Almighty that I’m back on the national team. If we win both games, it will automatically seal qualification like we want. So I’m very happy and I call upon all fans to come to Hoima to cheer on the team just like they did last time,” Byaruhanga noted.
A total of seven players were available for Monday’s session, with more expected to join camp, triggering stiff competition for starting slots, a challenge Byaruhanga says he is ready for.
“I know that every time I’ve been on the national team, there has always been competition. So, of course, as an individual, I know I have to compete for that spot.”
On the game doubling as a testimonial match for outgoing captain Khalid Aucho, Byaruhanga welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its significance given Aucho’s leadership and mentorship over the years.
“He has been our mentor, our captain, and an inspiration to this team. Of course, we wish him well. We wish him the best as he retires from the national team.”
