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In the absence of Emmanuel Okwi, Aucho, who is currently serving as the stand-in captain, asserts that the two friendlies scheduled in Mali and Zambia serve as crucial tests for the team, aiming to fine-tune their preparation for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Khalid Aucho, assistant captain of the Uganda Cranes, underscores the strategic importance of the team's upcoming friendly matches.
In the absence of Emmanuel Okwi, Aucho, who is currently serving as the stand-in captain, asserts that the two friendlies scheduled in Mali and Zambia serve as crucial tests for the team, aiming to fine-tune their preparation for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
"I'm thankful to FUFA for organizing these friendlies. Since our last performance in the AFCON qualifier, all players have maintained their focus and fitness, striving to excel in these two games," remarked Aucho.
He emphasized: "These games will enhance our understanding of our preparedness as we anticipate the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November."
With goalkeeper Ismael Watenga sidelined due to injury, Aucho, a formidable holding midfielder who plays for the Tanzanian powerhouse Young Africans, will be anticipated to marshal the team with his rich experience.
The Cranes, momentarily helmed by SC Villa assistant coach Morley Byekwaso in an interim capacity, are set to confront Mali in Bamako this Friday, subsequently journeying to the United Arab Emirates to grapple with Zambia on Tuesday, 17th October.
After failing to qualify for the AFCON 2023 tournament and finishing third in Group F with 7 points – while Tanzania and Algeria advanced with eight and 16 points, respectively – the Cranes are setting their sights on a vigorous campaign in the upcoming qualifiers.
The 2023 AFCON tournament will mark the second consecutive event Uganda will miss, their last participation being in the 2019 edition.
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18:17 - 06.10.2023
FOOTBALL Watenga praises brother Usama's progress, eager to team up on the cranes squad
For those unaware, Usama Arafat, a winger for KCCA FC, recently earned his inaugural call-up to the Uganda Cranes for friendlies against Mali and Zambia.
Khalid Aucho and company are pooled in Group in G alongside Algeria, Guinea, Mozambique Botswana and Somalia in the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
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