Uganda Cranes seek response against Gambia to end Morocco tour on a high
- Ronald Lusulire
- Jun 8
- 2 min read
Uganda Cranes return to action on June 9, aiming to bounce back from a 3-0 defeat to Cameroon when they face The Gambia in an international friendly at Stade de Marrakech Annexe Pitch. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 PM local time (6 PM Uganda time).
The encounter gives Uganda a chance to end their Moroccan tour on a positive note, following last Friday’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to 50th-ranked Cameroon—a match that exposed several tactical and positional shortcomings.
Head coach Paul Put has described the loss as a critical learning experience, insisting that such high-level friendlies are part of the process toward building a more competitive squad. "We need to be more clinical and avoid conceding easily," Put emphasized, hinting at possible changes in several positions.
Uganda are ranked 89th in the FIFA rankings, and today’s fixture against 117th-ranked Gambia presents a different, yet important, challenge. The Scorpions are expected to test Uganda in new ways, offering another benchmark for progress under Put's leadership.
Adding intrigue to the clash is the presence of former Uganda Cranes coach Johnathan McKinstry on Gambia’s touchline. The Northern Irishman will face many players he once managed, giving the fixture both emotional and competitive edge.
However, Uganda will be without two key players—goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi and defender Elio Capradossi—both sidelined by injuries sustained against Cameroon. Their absence may necessitate tactical adjustments and open the door for new faces to impress.
Ismail Watenga is expected to return in goal and is keen to lead by example. “This is more than a friendly. We’re here to represent our country, and we’ll give it our all to secure a win,” said the experienced goalkeeper.
All eyes will be on how the Cranes regroup and respond. For Paul Put and his charges, a strong showing against Gambia would not only restore confidence but also mark a vital step in preparations for upcoming competitive fixtures.
