How Paul Put could set up Uganda Cranes for Tunisia AFCON opener

Uganda Cranes are expected to approach their opening match of the 2025 AFCON against Tunisia with caution and while nothing has been confirmed, head coach Paul Joseph Put appears to have several reliable options as he plots a disciplined start to the tournament.

On paper and by pedigree, Tunisia walk into the Group C clash as favourites, a status built on decades of AFCON experience and their historic 2004 triumph on home soil.

For Put, that reality points towards a pragmatic tactical setup, prioritising structure, patience and moments of precision rather than outright dominance.

Uganda’s past encounters with North African opposition offer little encouragement, and playing in an Arab region further heightens the challenge.

As such, defensive organisation and swift transitions are expected to underpin Put’s game plan, with the Cranes likely to sit compact and strike when opportunities arise in the AFCON tie.

In goal, Salim Jamal is widely tipped to be the preferred choice if Put opts for familiarity with Maghreb football. The goalkeeper’s previous exposure to North African competition during his time with Sudanese sides Al Merreikh and Al Hilal in the CAF Champions League gives him an edge, despite competition from the experienced Denis Onyango and Nafian Alionzi.

At right back, Toby Sibbick is strongly favoured in most projections. Since his international debut last year, the Burton Albion defender has impressed with his composure on the ball and ability to contribute going forward without compromising defensive duties.

Kenneth Ssemakula remains an alternative, though his recent shift into midfield reduces the likelihood of him starting in that role.

On the left, Aziz Kayondo is the most probable selection. His pace, aggression and willingness to drive forward offer balance, though Tunisia’s wide play will pose a stern test. Kayondo’s recovery speed and one-on-one defending are expected to be crucial if he starts.

Uganda Cranes Set for Disciplined, High-Stakes AFCON Start Against Favourites Tunisia

The central defensive pairing is likely to feature Elio Capradossi alongside Jordan Obita. Capradossi has steadily grown into his role since his debut against Botswana, carrying the authority expected of a former AS Roma defender now playing for Universitatea Cluj.

Obita, who switched allegiance to Uganda earlier this year after representing England at youth level, adds calmness and positional awareness on the left side of central defence.

In midfield, a double pivot of Khalid Aucho and Kenneth Ssemakula is widely viewed as the most probable option. The duo would be tasked with breaking up Tunisia’s rhythm, protecting the back four and ensuring Uganda remain compact.

Baba Al Hassan, regarded by many as the most tactically intelligent midfielder in the squad, is expected to be a strong option off the bench depending on the flow of the game.

Further forward, Jude Ssemugabi, Allan Okello and Rogers Mato are tipped to operate in advanced roles behind the striker.

Okello’s confidence has continued to rise following a solid CHAN outing on home soil, and the creative midfielder will be eager to influence proceedings on the continental stage amid uncertainty surrounding his club future.

Mato arrives in Morocco for AFCON as Uganda’s most in-form attacking player. The FK Vardar winger has scored 15 goals in 22 appearances this season, including three in European competition, and his pace, direct running and goal threat make him central to Uganda’s attacking hopes.

Up front, Steven Mukwala is widely predicted to lead the line. The Simba SC forward, who has scored 13 league goals since last year, offers mobility, physical presence and the ability to drift wide qualities that could be vital in unsettling Tunisia’s defence.

While the final selection rests solely with Put, this predicted setup reflects a balance of experience, discipline and attacking promise as Uganda Cranes look to navigate a demanding AFCON opener with belief and resilience.

Uganda Cranes – Predicted AFCON Opener Starting XI:

Salim Jamal; Toby Sibbick, Elio Capradossi, Jordan Obita, Aziz Kayondo; Khalid Aucho, Kenneth Ssemakula; Jude Ssemugabi, Allan Okello, Rogers Mato; Steven Mukwala.