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Exploring Uganda’s Vibrant Spirit Through the Uganda Cranes and Wildlife Adventures

Uganda Cranes:  At Uganda Wildlife Tours, we’re passionate about showcasing the heart and soul of Uganda—a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a vibrant cultural pulse that resonates through its people and their passions.

One such passion is football, and at its core is the Uganda Cranes, the national football team that unites the nation with pride and excitement.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Uganda Cranes embody the spirit of Uganda and how you can combine the thrill of football fandom with unforgettable wildlife adventures through our tailored safari experiences.

Let’s dive into how these two seemingly different worlds—football and wildlife tourism—can create a unique and enriching travel experience in the Pearl of Africa.

The Uganda Cranes: A Symbol of National Pride

The Uganda Cranes, affectionately named after the grey-crowned crane—Uganda’s national bird—represent more than just a football team. They are a symbol of unity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of Ugandans. Since their debut in 1926, when they played a 1–1 draw against Kenya, the Cranes have been a source of national pride, with a storied history in African football.

Their most notable achievement came in 1978, when they reached the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, defeating teams like the Republic of Congo and Morocco before falling to Ghana. After a 39-year hiatus, their return to AFCON in 2017 and a historic win against DR Congo in 2019 (their first AFCON victory in 41 years) reignited national fervor.

The Cranes’ journey mirrors Uganda’s own: one of perseverance, passion, and triumph against the odds. Their recent performances, such as a thrilling 3–3 draw against South Africa in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), securing their first-ever quarter-final spot, have only amplified their status as sporting ambassadors.

Football in Uganda is more than a game; it’s a cultural force that brings communities together, much like the wildlife safaris that draw travelers to our national parks.

Uganda Cranes Table

The most recent and reliable information available on the Uganda Cranes’ standings in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification – CAF Group G is as follows, based on matches played up to September 5, 2025.

Below is the current table for Group G, which includes Algeria, Guinea, Uganda, Mozambique, Botswana, and Somalia. The group winner qualifies directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the runner-up may compete in a play-off for an inter-confederation play-off spot.

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification – CAF Group G Standings

Team	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Goals For	Goals Against	Goal Difference	Points
Algeria	7	5	0	2	–	–	–	15
Mozambique	7	4	0	3	–	–	–	12
Uganda	7	4	0	3	–	–	+4	12
Botswana	7	3	0	4	–	–	–	9
Guinea	7	2	0	5	–	–	–	6
Somalia	7	–	–	–	–	–	–	–

Notes:

• Uganda’s Position: Uganda is currently second in Group G with 12 points, tied with Mozambique but ahead on goal difference due to a 4–0 victory over Mozambique on September 5, 2025.
• Key Matches:
  • Uganda defeated Mozambique 4–0 on September 5, 2025, at Mandela National Stadium, with goals from Rogers Mato (2), Allan Okello, and Elio Capradossi.
  • Uganda beat Guinea 1–0 on March 25, 2025, with a goal from Allan Okello, moving them to third place at the time.
  • Uganda lost 3–1 to Mozambique on March 20, 2025, with Muhammad Shaban scoring their lone goal.
  • Uganda won 1–0 against Somalia in November 2023.
  • Uganda lost 2–1 to Algeria on June 10, 2024.
• Upcoming Match: Uganda faces Somalia on September 8, 2025, at Mandela National Stadium, which could further impact their standing.

Uganda Cranes Squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (September 2025)

Goalkeepers

Player Name	Club	Country
Denis Onyango	Mamelodi Sundowns	South Africa
Salim Omar Magoola	Richards Bay FC	South Africa
Nafian Alionzi	Defence Forces FC	Ethiopia
Joel Mutakubwa	BUL FC	Uganda

Defenders

Player Name	Club	Country
Elvis Bwomono	IBV Vestmannaeyjar	Iceland
Herbert Bockhorn	FC Magdeburg	Germany
Elio Capradossi	Universitatea Cluj	Romania
Rogers Torach	Vipers SC	Uganda
Toby Sibbick	Burton Albion	England
Hilary Mukundane	Vipers SC	Uganda
Jordan Obita	Hibernian	Scotland
Aziz Kayondo	Slovan Liberec	Czech Republic
Herbert Achayi	KCCA FC	Uganda
Gavin Kizito	KCCA FC	Uganda

Midfielders

Player Name	Club	Country
Ronald Ssekiganda	APR FC	Rwanda
Kenneth Semakula	Al Arabi SC	Kuwait
Joel Sserunjogi	KCCA FC	Uganda
Abdu Karim Watambala	Vipers SC	Uganda
Travis Mutyaba	CS Sfaxien	Tunisia
Khalid Aucho	Yanga Africans	Tanzania
Bobosi Byaruhanga	Austin II FC	USA
Saidi Mayanja	KCCA FC	Uganda

Forwards

Player Name	Club	Country
Joseph Mpande	Becamex Binh Duong	Vietnam
Uchechukwu Ikpeazu	St. Johnstone	Scotland
Steven Mukwala	Simba SC	Tanzania
Allan Okello	Vipers SC	Uganda
Jude Ssemugabi	Kitara FC	Uganda
Rogers Mato	FK Radnicki 1923	Serbia
Denis Omedi	Kitara FC	Uganda
Patrick Kakande	SC Villa	Uganda

Key Notes:

• • Captain: Khalid Aucho is the team captain, with Allan Okello serving as captain for the CHAN 2024 tournament squad.
  • Notable Returns: Denis Onyango, a 40-year-old veteran goalkeeper, returned from international retirement, and Joseph Mpande rejoined the squad after over a decade. Salim Jamal (Salim Omar Magoola) also made a comeback.
  • Local Talent: Eleven players from the 2024 CHAN tournament, which Uganda co-hosted, are included, showcasing the strength of local-based players like Joel Mutakubwa, Rogers Torach, and Allan Okello.
  • Recent Performance: The squad secured a 4–0 victory over Mozambique on September 5, 2025, with goals from Rogers Mato (2), Allan Okello, and Elio Cap.

Uganda Cranes lineup today

The starting lineup for the Uganda Cranes for their match against Somalia on September 8, 2025, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (Group G) at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, has not been officially confirmed in the available sources.

However, based on a post on X and recent team selections, particularly from the Uganda Cranes’ match against Mozambique on September 5, 2025, I can provide a probable starting XI, with some updates based on sentiment and squad changes.

Probable Uganda Cranes Starting XI vs. Somalia (September 8, 2025)

The following lineup is inferred from the starting XI against Mozambique, recent squad announcements, and a fan-posted lineup on X, considering coach Paul Put’s preferences and player performances.

Position	Player	Club	Country
Goalkeeper	Salim Jamal Magoola	Richards Bay FC	South Africa
Defender	Elvis Bwomono	IBV Vestmannaeyjar	Iceland
Defender	Aziz Kayondo	Slovan Liberec	Czech Republic
Defender	Elio Capradossi	Universitatea Cluj	Romania
Defender	Jordan Obita	Hibernian	Scotland
Midfielder	Kenneth Ssemakula	Al Arabi SC	Kuwait
Midfielder	Khalid Aucho (C)	Yanga Africans	Tanzania
Midfielder	Allan Okello	Vipers SC	Uganda
Forward	Steven Mukwala	Simba SC	Tanzania
Forward	Uchechukwu Ikpeazu	St. Johnstone	Scotland
Forward	Rogers Mato	FK Radnicki 1923	Serbia

Key Notes on the Lineup:

• • • Goalkeeper: Salim Jamal Magoola is likely to start, as he did against Mozambique, where he was largely untested and kept a clean sheet. Despite earlier scrutiny for a goal conceded against Guinea in 2023, his recent performance suggests he retains coach Paul Put’s trust. Denis Onyango, a veteran option, may remain on the bench.
    • Defenders: The backline is expected to mirror the Mozambique game, with Capradossi, who scored in the 4–0 win, providing stability. Bwomono, Kayondo, and Obita add international experience.
    • Midfield: Khalid Aucho, the captain, anchors the midfield with his grit, while Allan Okello’s creativity (a goal and assist against Mozambique) makes him a key starter. Kenneth Ssemakula’s versatility ensures his inclusion.
    • Forwards: Rogers Mato, with a brace against Mozambique, is a guaranteed starter, leading the qualifiers with three goals. Steven Mukwala and Uche Ikpeazu are likely to lead the line, with Ikpeazu’s aerial presence noted as a threat.
    • Potential Changes: A post on X suggests Denis Omedi could start, possibly replacing Mukwala or Ikpeazu, given his goal-scoring form in earlier qualifiers (e.g., against Guinea in November 2023). However, this is unconfirmed and speculative.
    • Substitutes to Watch: Joseph Mpande, who came off the bench against Mozambique, and Denis Omedi could feature if Put opts for rotation against a weaker Somalia side. Joel Sserunjogi, Jude Ssemugabi, or Travis Mutyaba may also get minutes.

Why Combine Football and Wildlife Tourism?

At first glance, football and wildlife safaris might seem worlds apart, but in Uganda, they are two sides of the same vibrant coin. Both embody the energy, heart, and hospitality of the Ugandan people.

Imagine cheering for the Cranes at the electrifying Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, surrounded by passionate fans, vuvuzelas blaring, and then embarking on a safari to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This fusion of cultural immersion and natural adventure offers travelers a holistic experience of Uganda’s soul.

By blending football fandom with wildlife tours, Uganda Wildlife Tours aims to create a unique travel itinerary that appeals to sports enthusiasts, culture lovers, and nature seekers alike.

The Uganda Tourism Board has long recognized the potential of sports tourism, partnering with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) to promote the Cranes as ambassadors for Uganda’s tourism potential. Our tours build on this synergy, offering visitors a chance to engage with Uganda’s athletic culture while exploring its world-renowned biodiversity.

The Uganda Cranes Experience: Feel the Pulse of Kampala

Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital, is the heartbeat of the Cranes’ fanbase. Attending a Uganda Cranes match at Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) is an unforgettable experience.

The atmosphere is electric—fans draped in yellow, red, and black, the colors of the Ugandan flag, chant and dance in unison, creating a carnival-like vibe.

Whether it’s a World Cup qualifier or a CHAN match, the energy is unmatched, with local stars like Joel Sserunjogi and Allan Okello lighting up the pitch.

For travelers, this is a chance to immerse yourself in Ugandan culture. Before or after the match, explore Kampala’s vibrant markets, such as Owino or Nakasero, where you can sample local delicacies like rolex (a chapati-egg roll) or pick up Cranes merchandise to show your support.

Our tours can include guided visits to these cultural hotspots, ensuring you experience the city like a local. And why stop there? Combine your football adventure with a visit to nearby attractions, such as the Uganda National Museum or the serene shores of Lake Victoria.

From the Stadium to the Savannah: Wildlife Adventures Await

After soaking in the football fever, let Uganda Wildlife Tours take you into the wild heart of Uganda. Our safari packages are designed to complement your Cranes experience, offering seamless transitions from urban excitement to natural wonder.

Uganda is home to 10 national parks, 12 wildlife reserves, and a host of community-managed areas, each teeming with unique flora and fauna. Here’s how we can craft a tour that blends the thrill of football with the awe of Uganda’s wildlife:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
   Home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, Bwindi offers a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience. Imagine hiking through misty forests to encounter these gentle giants, a humbling contrast to the high-energy stadium atmosphere. Our 3-day gorilla trekking package includes permits, expert guides, and a chance to relax by Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most picturesque lakes.
2. Wildlife Safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park
   Spot tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, track elephants and buffaloes, or take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to see hippos and crocodiles. This park, with its stunning Rift Valley landscapes, is a perfect complement to the urban vibrancy of a Cranes match.
3. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
   Known as the primate capital of the world, Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. A guided trek through its lush forests offers a chance to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Combine this with a visit to nearby crater lakes for a well-rounded adventure.
4. Murchison Falls National Park
   Witness the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River thunders through a narrow gorge. Game drives here reveal elephants, giraffes, and the elusive shoebill stork, while boat safaris offer a front-row seat to Uganda’s aquatic wildlife.

Sample Itinerary: Football and Wildlife Adventure

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a sample 7-day itinerary that combines the Uganda Cranes experience with Uganda’s wildlife wonders:

Day	Activity	Location	Highlights
Day 1	Arrival & Kampala City Tour	Kampala	Visit Owino Market, Uganda National Museum, and prepare for the Cranes match.
Day 2	Uganda Cranes Match	Mandela National Stadium, Kampala	Cheer for the Cranes, enjoy fan festivities, and dine at a local restaurant.
Day 3	Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park	Western Uganda	Scenic drive, evening game drive to spot lions and elephants.
Day 4	Wildlife Safari & Boat Cruise	Queen Elizabeth National Park	Morning game drive, afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel.
Day 5	Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park	Southwestern Uganda	Cultural stop at a Batwa community, relax at lodge.
Day 6	Gorilla Trekking	Bwindi Impenetrable National Park	Trek to see mountain gorillas, evening by Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 7	Return to Kampala & Departure	Kampala	Souvenir shopping, transfer to Entebbe International Airport.

This itinerary balances the adrenaline of football with the serenity of nature, creating memories that capture Uganda’s diverse allure. Our expert guides ensure a seamless experience, handling logistics so you can focus on the adventure.

The Cultural Connection: Football and Conservation

The Uganda Cranes also play a role in conservation, a cause close to our heart at Uganda Wildlife Tours. In partnership with organizations like the Uganda Conservation Foundation (UCF) and WildAid, the Cranes have been ambassadors for campaigns like “Poaching Steals From Us All,” raising awareness about protecting Uganda’s wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and mountain gorillas.

By supporting the Cranes, you’re indirectly championing conservation efforts that preserve Uganda’s natural heritage for future generations.

Our tours emphasize sustainable travel, working with local communities and conservation agencies to ensure that tourism benefits both people and wildlife. For example, visits to the Batwa communities near Bwindi allow travelers to learn about indigenous cultures while supporting community-led conservation initiatives.

Practical Tips for Your Football and Wildlife Adventure

• Best Time to Visit: Football matches are scheduled year-round, but the dry seasons (June–August, December–February) are ideal for wildlife safaris due to better road conditions and animal sightings.
• What to Pack: Bring lightweight clothing for Kampala’s warm climate, sturdy hiking boots for safaris, and Cranes merchandise to blend in with local fans.
• Health and Safety: Ensure you have a yellow fever vaccination certificate, malaria prophylaxis, and travel insurance. Our team provides pre-trip health advice.
• Booking Match Tickets: We can arrange tickets for Uganda Cranes matches, ensuring you get the best seats to experience the action.

Why Choose Uganda Wildlife Tours?

At Uganda Wildlife Tours, we specialize in crafting personalized experiences that showcase Uganda’s diversity. Our local guides, many of whom are football fans themselves, bring insider knowledge to both the stadium and the safari trail.

We handle all logistics—permits, accommodations, transport—so you can immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, our flexible itineraries cater to your interests, blending the thrill of the Uganda Cranes with the wonder of Uganda’s wildlife.

Join the Adventure

The Uganda Cranes and Uganda’s wildlife are two sides of the same vibrant story—a story of passion, resilience, and natural beauty. By combining a Cranes match with a wildlife safari, you’ll experience Uganda in a way that few travelers do.

From the roar of the crowd at Namboole to the roar of Murchison Falls, Uganda Wildlife Tours invites you to discover the Pearl of Africa in all its glory.

Ready to cheer for the Cranes and track gorillas in the wild? Contact Uganda Wildlife Tours today to customize your football and wildlife adventure.

WhatsApp or Email us to start planning your unforgettable journey. Let’s celebrate Uganda’s spirit together—on the pitch and in the wild!