A close look at the five Uganda Cranes’ 2024 TotalEnergies CHAN players who have been there before

As Uganda Cranes finalise preparations for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) set to kick off on August 2nd and co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, all eyes are on the 25-man squad selected to represent the nation on home soil.

Among the youthful energy and new faces are five battle-tested players who’ve already graced the CHAN stage and are now back with experience, composure and clear intentions.

Their return brings both a sense of familiarity and responsibility, as Uganda looks to progress past the group stages for the first time in history. These players have seen the highs and lows of continental football, and their leadership could prove vital when Uganda kicks off Group C action against Algeria on August 4th at Namboole Stadium.

Here’s a close look at the five returning CHAN alumni — their tournament history, what they bring to the 2024 squad, and their personal reflections.

1. Yunus Sentamu – Forward, Vipers SC
CHAN Appearances: 2014 (South Africa)

Sentamu was a teenage sensation in the 2014 CHAN edition, scoring all three of Uganda’s goals — including a brilliant brace in the Cranes’ first-ever CHAN win against Burkina Faso (2-1), and a consolation against Morocco. A decade later, the now experienced striker returns as a matured leader after playing professionally across DR Congo, Tunisia, Finland, and Albania.

Sentamu says:

“In 2014, I came in as a boy full of dreams. I’m back now as a man with a mission. This isn’t just about me scoring goals, it’s about leading a team to achieve what we’ve never done before, especially in front of our people.”

2. Joel Mutakubwa – Goalkeeper, Bul FC
CHAN Appearances: 2020 (Cameroon), 2022 (Algeria)

From third choice in 2020 to second in 2022, Mutakubwa now takes up the number one shirt for the 2024 edition. His journey through Uganda’s CHAN squads reflects growth, perseverance, and reliability — traits that will be critical between the sticks.

Mutakubwa says:

“I’ve watched from the bench, learned from the best, and now it’s my turn. I’m not just guarding the goal — I’m protecting Uganda’s hopes. At home, every save counts double.”

3. Karim Watambala – Midfielder, Vipers SC
CHAN Appearances: 2020 (Cameroon), 2022 (Algeria)

Watambala has been in two CHAN squads before, getting limited minutes, but gaining vital exposure. Known for his energy, tackling, and ball recovery, the 2024 edition could be his moment to command the midfield and help Uganda push beyond the group phase.

Watambala says:

“The previous editions prepared me for this. I’ve grown through them. This time I’m not coming to learn — I’m coming to impact. We owe our fans a deep run, and I want to be part of that journey.”

4. Marvin Joseph Youngman – Midfielder, Vipers SC
CHAN Appearances: 2022 (Algeria)

Youngman was among the few who stood out in Algeria with solid performances against DR Congo and Senegal. Calm under pressure and smart in transition, he will be expected to play a key midfield role once again in 2024.

Youngman says:

“Playing in Algeria opened my eyes to the intensity of CHAN. Now I know what it takes. Being at home makes this even more meaningful. We’re ready to give it everything — for ourselves and our country.”

5. Hilary Mukundane – Defender, Vipers SC
CHAN Appearances: 2022 (Algeria)

Mukundane was a squad member in Algeria but didn’t see playing time due to strong competition. However, after an impressive club season with Vipers SC where he was pivotal in a double title-winning campaign, “Bihogo” is determined to bring his club form to the national team setup this time around.

Mukundane says:

“In 2022, I watched from the sidelines. It gave me hunger. Now, I’ve earned my spot through performance. I’m ready to fight for the badge and push us out of the group stage.”

Uganda Cranes – 2024 TotalEnergies CHAN Group C Fixtures:

Vs Algeria: August 4, 2025 – Namboole Stadium
Vs Guinea: August 8, 2025 – Namboole Stadium
Vs Niger: August 11, 2025 – Namboole Stadium
Vs South Africa: August 18, 2025 – Namboole Stadium

As Uganda Cranes enter their seventh CHAN appearance, the presence of these five returning players provides a blend of experience and resilience. Their voices in the dressing room and influence on the pitch could be exactly what Uganda needs to finally break their group stage curse this time, on home ground.