Paul Put Finally Makes Decision After Weeks of Cameroon Link Speculation

Uganda national team head coach Paul Put has renewed his contract with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) until 2028.

The Belgian tactician, who took over on November 2, 2023, was tasked with three key objectives: to qualify Uganda for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), improve the Cranes’ performance in World Cup qualifiers.

Two years on, he appears to have met those targets with discipline, tactical organisation, and results that have restored pride to the national side.

FUFA confirmed the contract renewal ahead of Uganda’s upcoming international friendly matches in Morocco, where Put also unveiled his latest squad. The friendlies are expected to serve as the final preparation phase for the Afcon 2025 finals — Uganda’s first appearance at the tournament since 2019.

“I am humbled by the trust FUFA has placed in me and proud of what we have built so far,” said Put after signing the new deal. 

“Our journey is not over; it’s just beginning. The focus now shifts to Morocco, where we want to show that Uganda can compete with the best on the continent.”

When Put was appointed, he was given unusual latitude to choose his backroom staff — a mix of Belgian technical expertise and Ugandan support personnel — creating a balance that has clearly paid off.

 Uganda’s qualification for Afcon 2025 came through decisive victories over South Sudan and Congo and a crucial draw with South Africa, showcasing a side that had rediscovered its competitive edge.

In World Cup qualifying, the Cranes finished second in a tough group featuring Algeria, Mozambique, Botswana, Guinea, and Somalia. 

Across his two years in charge, Put has presided over 25 matches: 10 World Cup qualifiers, six Afcon qualifiers, two Chan qualifiers, and seven friendlies. 

His record stands at 14 wins, three draws, and eight losses — a 56 percent overall win rate. In competitive fixtures alone, his 67 percent success rate is one of the best by any Cranes coach in recent memory.

Beyond the numbers, Put’s influence has extended to squad development and team culture. He has successfully integrated foreign-born players such as Elio Capradossi, Jordan Obita, and Toby Sibbick, alongside domestic stars like Allan Okello, creating a blend of talent that balances experience and youth.

Under his watch, Uganda’s performances have become more structured, disciplined, and confident — a sharp contrast to the inconsistency of previous regimes.