Paul Put’s Uganda journey: From rebuilding phase to AFCON return

When Belgian tactician Paul Put was unveiled as head coach of the Uganda Cranes on November 2, 2023, few could predict just how swiftly he would turn the team’s fortunes around.

Joseph Paul Put 👔

✍️ @UgandaCranes until 2028 pic.twitter.com/TijQRKdNbN

— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) November 6, 2025

Appointed on a two-year contract, the vastly experienced coach was tasked with reviving a national side that had missed consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) editions and was struggling to rediscover its competitive edge.

A New Chapter Begins

Put’s arrival marked the beginning of a new era. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) entrusted him with a clear mandate, guide Uganda back to the AFCON finals and build a solid foundation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Having previously managed national teams such as Gambia, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Kenya, Put came with a reputation for discipline, structure, and tactical pragmatism.

Right from his first training camps, the Belgian emphasized teamwork, defensive solidity, and adaptability. He introduced a 4-2-3-1 system, balancing experienced internationals with youthful talent from the local league, a move that rejuvenated competition for places within the squad.

How Paul Put planned for;
Uganda 1-0 Guinea result!#UGAGUI#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/TagmYlQmm4

— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) March 25, 2025

Early Tests and Tactical Discipline

Uganda’s first outings under Put showcased glimpses of a growing identity. The Cranes looked more organized and compact, minimizing the defensive lapses that had previously haunted them.

In several friendly matches and qualifiers, his side began to show improved tactical awareness closing spaces quickly and attacking with purpose on the break.

Put also showed trust in home-based players, many of whom had excelled in the Uganda Premier League and CHAN setups.

This inclusiveness broadened the national pool and rekindled belief among local talents that hard work at home could earn a place in the senior team.

A Historic AFCON Qualification

The highlight of Paul Put’s tenure so far came in 2024, when the Uganda Cranes secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations that will be held in Morocco this year in December, the achievement ended the nation’s short exile from the continental showpiece and reaffirmed Uganda’s status among Africa’s rising football nations.

📹 The goal that restored Uganda’s lead!#SSDUGA | #LumbaMuYello#HomeOfUgandanSport https://t.co/w2QIJShfTW pic.twitter.com/nBA0sdewJy

— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) October 15, 2024

Uganda’s road to qualification was built on consistent performances including vital home victories and hard-fought draws away.

The team showed mental resilience and tactical maturity, qualities Put has long been known to instill in his sides. His ability to manage tight games and adapt strategies according to opponents was instrumental in the Cranes’ successful campaign.

CHAN Progress and Domestic Impact

In addition to AFCON qualification, Put also oversaw Uganda’s progress in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), where the locally-based Cranes topped Group C in a strong display that included a thrilling 3–3 draw with South Africa.

Though Uganda later bowed out in the quarterfinals to Senegal, the campaign was hailed as one of the most promising CHAN performances in recent years.

This success not only restored pride among local players but also provided a platform for emerging talents to catch the eye of foreign scouts and national selectors like Allan Okello, Jude Ssemugabi, Joel Sserunjogi, etc. Put’s approach blending youth and experience has gradually strengthened the domestic football ecosystem.

World Cup Ambitions

Beyond continental football, Paul Put also set his sights on guiding Uganda to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers but failed short despite fighting until the k day of the campaign. Uganda began the campaign with renewed energy and determination. Early results reflected steady progress, with the Cranes improving their away performances a long-standing weakness in previous qualification attempts.

Put’s focus on mental strength and tactical discipline has given the team a fighting edge in challenging environments.

Restoring Belief and Identity

Under Paul Put, the Uganda Cranes have regained an identity one rooted in discipline, tactical intelligence, and collective responsibility. Training sessions have been more intense, preparations more detailed, and expectations more realistic. The Belgian’s experience across Africa has proven invaluable in navigating the complexities of the continental game.

He has also fostered stronger unity between the coaching staff, federation, and players emphasizing open communication and accountability.

This culture has brought stability to a team that had, at times, struggled to maintain consistency in results.

Summary of Achievements So Far

• Appointed: November 2023
• Guided Uganda to AFCON 2025 qualification
• Led Uganda to CHAN 2024 quarterfinals (first knockout appearance in recent history)
• Revived Uganda’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign
• Integrated more local-based players into the national setup
• Restored tactical discipline and consistency to the Cranes

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