CHAN 2024: SC Villa’s Odong embraces camp intensity as Uganda Cranes build for success

SC Villa defender Arnold Odong has expressed confidence in the steady progress Uganda Cranes are making ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), attributing much of the growth to the ongoing residential training camp.

Currently in residential camp at FUFA Hotel, Kisaasi and training at MTN Phillip Omondi Stadium, the team is under the guidance of co-coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza, and Odong believes the intensive sessions are laying a solid foundation for success.

“This week of the first residential camp has not been an easy one. The intensity has increased, training has become tougher, but it’s good for us,” said Odong. “We appreciate it because it’s going to help us perform better as a team in the coming games. Our coaches believe a lot in hard work, and that’s exactly what it takes to compete.”

Odong emphasized that the camp has not only improved physical conditioning but has also strengthened team unity and chemistry—key ingredients in building a competitive side.

“First of all, it’s a very good thing as a team to enter camp because it has brought us all together,” he noted. “The players are working together, bonding, getting to know each other more. We’re able to train collectively and the coaches can monitor what each and every player is doing. It’s really helping us grow as a team.”

A key figure in SC Villa’s 2023/24 title-winning campaign, Odong made 24 appearances last season and has 49 Uganda Premier League matches under his belt across two seasons. His experience at international level is also growing, having featured for the Cranes in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers against South Africa and Congo, and in friendlies against Cameroon and Gambia.

“Moving with the team during AFCON qualification gave me a lot of experience,” Odong reflected. “I got to play with top players, learned from them, and understood how the national team operates. That same style of play is now being used for CHAN, so I come in with a bit of insight I can share with the squad to help us work better together.”

Looking ahead, Odong remains focused on helping Uganda navigate a challenging Group C that features Algeria, South Africa, Guinea, and Niger.

“We’re home and we need to give it our all,” he added. “We need to work really hard to get out of the group and go far in the tournament.”

With the Cranes showing growing cohesion and energy in camp, Odong’s blend of domestic and international experience could prove vital in Uganda’s push for CHAN glory.