The Uganda Cranes kick off their AFCON 2025 build-ups today with a friendly clash against Moroccan giants FAR Rabat in Casablanca, a match that signals the start of serious preparation for the continental showpiece. They will late play Gabon in the second build on Wednesday.
Uganda are camped in Morocco, the host nation for their Group C opener against Tunisia on December 23, with Nigeria and Tanzania completing a demanding pool. The two warm-up matches scheduled in North Africa are intended to sharpen the team before competitive action begins.
Having arrived six days ago, the Cranes have used the past week to acclimatise and lay the groundwork, even as head coach Paul Put works with an incomplete squad. Only 21 players are currently in camp, with several foreign-based professionals yet to report due to FIFA’s mandatory release window, which opens on December 16.
This has given locally based Uganda Premier League players a valuable opportunity to stake a claim, supported by a handful of overseas-based stars whose clubs granted early release. The numbers are expected to rise steadily in the coming days as the full 30-man squad takes shape.
Training sessions have already shown promising intensity, with players such as Allan Okello, goalkeepers Salim Magoola, Charles Lukwago and Alionzi Nafian, alongside Travis Mutyaba, Rogers Torach, Ronald Ssekiganda and Ivan Ahimbisibwe, catching the eye with their energy and sharpness.
Goalkeeper Alionzi believes the camp is heading in the right direction despite the early challenges. He admitted the long journey took its toll but insisted the team is adjusting well as focus shifts to match readiness. He also highlighted the significance of AFCON, describing it as the ultimate stage for African footballers and a personal honour to be part of Uganda’s journey.
After today’s test against FAR Rabat, the Cranes will conclude their pre-tournament friendlies next Wednesday with a fixture against Gabon, before turning full attention to the Group C showdown with Tunisia.
