Uganda eye redemption in East African AFCON derby against Tanzania

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put has challenged his players to respond positively when they face neighbours Tanzania in a must-win Group clash at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Cranes lock horns with the Taifa Stars on Saturday at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, with both sides desperate to revive their campaigns after opening-day defeats.

Uganda were outplayed 3-1 by Tunisia, while Tanzania fell 2-1 to continental heavyweights Nigeria, leaving this regional derby carrying added weight.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Put admitted the setback against Tunisia was far from ideal but stressed that AFCON campaigns are defined by how teams respond to adversity.

“Starting with a loss is never good if you want to go far, but football gives you no time to dwell,” Put noted. “This next match is crucial for us. There is pressure, yes, but we must overcome it and turn it into a positive energy to get a result.”

Team News and Defensive Concerns

Uganda will be without defender Elio Capradossi, who has not recovered in time after picking up an injury. Put confirmed that despite intense efforts from the medical team, including recovery sessions in the pool, the Tanzania match comes too soon. “Tomorrow is too early for him. He will not be available,” Put said.

The Cranes are also feeling the absence of Timothy Awany, who was sidelined by injury sustained at club level in Israel and was further affected by a family bereavement. Put acknowledged the defensive limitations but insisted they cannot be an excuse.

“We don’t have many options at the back, but our duty remains the same — to make Ugandans proud. And that only comes through getting a good result.”

Press play ▶️

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put at today’s pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Tanzania.#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/u4q1SQFQyr

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) December 26, 2025

Belief, Pressure and AFCON Opportunity

Put also reflected on the broader challenge East African players face compared to their West African counterparts, who often benefit from early exposure to European football.

“AFCON is a shop window,” he emphasized. “The whole world is watching. This is the moment for our players to stand up and show the quality they have.”

After a below-par showing against Tunisia, the Belgian tactician called for improvement across the board, urging his players to trust the process that saw them excel during qualification.

“We must be better in all aspects. We performed well in the qualifiers, so the players must believe they can compete at this level.”

Onyango’s Leadership and the Derby Test

Put reserved special praise for veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, describing him as a calming influence in a largely inexperienced squad.

“He is a leader, almost a captain off the field. With many players at AFCON for the first time, his experience and mentality are invaluable,” Put said, even hinting at a future role for Onyango within the technical team after retirement.

As for facing Tanzania, Put expects a tight and emotional contest, typical of East African derbies.
“These games are always tricky. Tanzania are a good side, but we must show more hunger and a stronger desire to win than them.”

With pride, points and momentum on the line, the Cranes know that Saturday’s derby offers not just a chance for redemption, but a lifeline in their AFCON campaign.