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Meanwhile, Watenga wants their story to inspire many other budding stars: "I hope our journey inspires young boys and girls from Nakaloke, Mbale, and beyond."
Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Ismail Watenga has paid homage to his younger brother, Usama Arafat Kizza, for making his national senior debut.
Arafat came off the bench to feature for the Cranes as they lost 1-0 to West African powerhouse Mali in an international friendly on Friday in Bamako.
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12:12 - 14.10.2023
FOOTBALL PICTORIAL: Uganda Cranes 0-1 Mali - The Best shots as Uganda suffered defeat
Uganda Cranes suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mali in an international friendly encounter on Friday, in Mali.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I am proud of you, my young brother Usama Arafat," Watenga spoke of his brother on his social media handles.
"Reaching this level is a testament that hard work pays off, but this is just the beginning," Watenga said.
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Arafat, a revelation at his club KCCA FC this season, was rewarded a call and a debut by interim head coach Morley Byekwaso for his blistering form.
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17:57 - 13.10.2023
FOOTBALL Micho: Former Uganda Cranes coach underway with work as Libya coach
Micho is thus expected to be in the dugout as Libya take on Liberia on Saturday before playing Niger on October 17.
Before the summon, he had scored two goals and assisted once in the past four games in all competitions for the Kasasiro Boys.
Meanwhile, Watenga wants their story to inspire many other budding stars: "I hope our journey inspires young boys and girls from Nakaloke, Mbale, and beyond."
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17:58 - 12.10.2023
FOOTBALL Ismail Watenga: Cranes goalkeeper reveals secret to excellent form
The former Vipers SC custodian has been a revelation this season, starting eight games for Golden Arrows in the Premier Soccer League and keeping three clean sheets.
"To know it’s possible to achieve your dreams with dedication and effort. We’re excited to be here, and we encourage you to dream big and work hard to reach your goals.”
On the other hand, Watenga, who features for South Africa's Golden Arrows on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns, didn't make the match-day squad, as he was injured.
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18:38 - 12.10.2023
FOOTBALL James Begisa: URA right-back overcomes injury to battle Enock Walusimbi for spot
In his absence, the Tax Collectors won just once against Gadaffi FC (2-0) and drew the other two; 1-1 against Soltilo Bright Stars FC and 0-0 with UPDF FC.
However, despite the injury, Watenga kept with the team and awaits to be seen whether he will recover in time to play against Zambia in the next friendly, slated for October 17 in Dubai.
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