USL Championship: Bobosi Byaruhanga targets breakthrough campaign with Oakland Roots (Exclusive)

Uganda Cranes midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga is optimistic about making a bigger impact as Oakland Roots SC prepare to kick off their 2026 USL Championship season with a road trip to face Monterey Bay FC on Sunday.

 

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The match marks the beginning of Byaruhanga’s second year with the California-based side, and the industrious midfielder is eager to build on the experiences gained during his debut campaign at the club.

After a season of adaptation and growth in 2025, the Ugandan international believes both he and the team are better prepared to compete strongly in the new campaign.

Speaking to Pan African Football ahead of the opener, Byaruhanga expressed confidence that the club has the quality and determination to push for greater success this season.

“Last season helped me understand the club better and settle into the team. This year the target is to improve in every area, help the team score more goals, provide assists, and work hard in every match,” Byaruhanga noted.

“We all want to compete at the highest level and fight for silverware because that is the dream of every player.”

Last season, Oakland Roots SC finished 10th in the Western Conference standings but still managed to secure a place in the playoffs, an achievement the squad is keen to build upon in the 2026 campaign.

For Byaruhanga, the focus is not only on personal improvement but also on helping the team climb higher up the table and establish themselves among the league’s strongest contenders.

The former Uganda U-20 player believes consistency, teamwork, and belief will be key as the club looks to surpass last season’s performance.

“We made the playoffs last year which was good, but we want more. The aim now is to finish higher, compete strongly throughout the season and give ourselves a real chance of winning something,” he added.

The opener against Monterey Bay FC presents an early opportunity for Byaruhanga and his teammates to lay down a marker as they begin what they hope will be a memorable campaign in the 2026 season.

With renewed ambition and growing confidence within the squad, the Uganda Cranes midfielder will be hoping to play a pivotal role in steering Oakland Roots SC toward a stronger finish and, ultimately, silverware at the end of the season.