In the heart of the Rwanda Premier League, one Ugandan name continues to command respect and authority: Nicholas Sebwato. The veteran shot-stopper has become a pillar of leadership as the captain of Mukura Victory Sports.
Following a high-octane 1-1 draw against Sudanese heavyweights Al-Merreikh on Sunday, we caught up with the “Ugandan Wall” to discuss the intensity of the game, the weight of the captain’s armband, and his enduring dreams for the Uganda Cranes.
The Exclusive Interview
Q: A 1-1 draw against a team of Al-Merreikh’s stature is no small feat. How would you describe the intensity of today’s game?
Sebwato: It was a very intense match. Al-Merreikh is a quality side with a big reputation across the continent, but we proved today that we have a good team too. We showed that we have the quality to compete and match such big teams on any given day.
Q: As a goalkeeper and leader, you were organizing the defense constantly. What was the most difficult part of keeping the Al-Merreikh attackers at bay?
Sebwato: The focus was on discipline. As I told my teammates, we have a good squad and we matched them well throughout the game. We remained organized and ensured we didn’t give their attackers the space they needed to punish us.
Q: You held the lead for a while. Do you feel this is a point gained, or did you feel you had the chance to take all three?
Sebwato: To be honest, we had the chances to win this game. We created good opportunities but unfortunately didn’t convert them into goals. While we thank God for the point against a giant like Al-Merreikh, we feel we matched them well enough to have taken all three points.
Q: You are one of the few Ugandans wearing the captain’s armband in a top foreign league. How much weight does that responsibility carry for you?
Sebwato: It is a responsibility I take very seriously. Leading a team like Mukura in the Rwanda Premier League is all about hard work, discipline, and consistency. That is what I strive to show the younger players every day.
Q: How do you manage to bridge the communication between different nationalities in the squad to keep the team focused?
Sebwato: Communication is vital for a keeper. Right now, I can speak different languages including Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili, and English. Most of the players here understand Swahili, so it makes it very easy for me to communicate instructions and keep the backline focused.
Q: What are the team’s realistic targets for the rest of the season?
Sebwato: Our target from the beginning of the season has been to compete at the top. We want to fight for a trophy this season, whether it is the Rwanda Premier League title or the Peace Cup.
Q: On a personal level, any hopes for a return to the Uganda Cranes based on this consistent form?
Sebwato: Every player is hoping for that call-up. Everyone would be happy to be on the national team, and I am no different. If I get the opportunity to serve my country again, I am ready. Why not?
Q: Lastly, what message do you have for the fans back home in Uganda who are following your journey?
Sebwato: I just want to thank them for their incredible support. It means a lot to know people back home are watching. May the Almighty God bless them all.
