First flight, first senior Cranes call-up: Ssebagala delighted by national team summon

Enock Ssebagala arrives for Uganda Cranes duty. Photo Credit: FUFA Media

NEC FC midfielder Enock Ssebagala is overjoyed after earning his first-ever call-up to the senior Uganda Cranes squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Mozambique and Guinea.

For Ssebagala, the national team selection is a dream come true, but what made it even more special was experiencing his first-ever flight.

“I felt so good because it was even my first time to take a flight, coming to represent my country. I had never taken a flight in my life,” he shared with excitement.

The in-form midfielder, who has been a standout performer for NEC FC in the Uganda Premier League, couldn’t hide his joy at being recognized at the international level.

“Just like any player, the biggest goal is to play for the national team,” he said. “I felt so good.”

Despite being new to the Cranes setup, Ssebagala is eager to blend in and play alongside some of Uganda’s top talents, including Travis Mutyaba, Allan Okello, and Khalid Aucho.

“I have not played with most of the players, but I’m excited to be alongside them. It feels nice.”

Uganda is set to face Mozambique on Thursday, March 20, at Cairo International Stadium in Egypt before hosting Guinea on Tuesday, March 25, at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole.

Ssebagala’s impressive performances in the league earned him the national team nod and he will now compete for a place in midfield with the likes of Mutyaba and Okello.