Uganda Cranes Set for Return After Months of Uncertainty

Ugandan football fans can look forward to seeing the national team in action sooner than expected, with the Cranes scheduled to regroup for a training camp and friendly matches this June.

The announcement comes as welcome news after a period of doubt surrounding the team's immediate future. Earlier this year, planned friendlies against Bahrain and Madagascar in Turkey were cancelled due to security issues in the Middle East, leaving the team without fixtures during the March international window.

With Uganda not participating in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the cancellation raised concerns about a prolonged period of inactivity for the squad.

The team's next official competitive matches are the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, which begin in September.

However, as co-hosts of the 2027 tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda has already secured its spot. This makes the qualifiers an opportunity for preparation rather than a high-stakes battle for a place.

Speaking on CBS FM, FUFA President Moses Magogo confirmed the team would not have to wait until September to play. He revealed plans for the upcoming camp, which will also serve as a platform to introduce new talent.

"We are monitoring a couple of players," Magogo stated. "I think by the time we get to play friendlies in June, we shall maybe introduce to Ugandans the players we have identified and agreed upon."

The June gathering will be the first time the senior national team has convened since their participation in the 2025 AFCON held in Morocco earlier this year, making it a highly anticipated return for players and supporters alike.