World Cup Qualifiers: Probable Lineup for Uganda against Guinea

World Cup Qualifiers: Probable Lineup for Uganda against Guinea|FUFA IMAGE

World Cup Qualifiers: Probable Lineup for Uganda against Guinea

Allan Damba • 06:54 - 17.11.2023

But, how is Put likely to assemble his team given the need for results, good football and the need to maintain the often talked about transition.

Uganda will lock horns against Guinea in their first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Morocco later on Friday.

It will be head coach Paul Put Joseph's first match in charge of the fold after taking over from the sacked Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic.

Uganda will need to get off the campaign to a flying start, should they stand worthy chances of clinching a spot in the finals for the first time in history.

But, how is Put likely to assemble his team given the need for results, good football and the need to maintain the often talked about transition.

Goalkeeper: Salim Jamal Magoola

Salim Jamal Magoola joined the Uganda Cranes camp / Richards Bay Image

As it has been in the recent past, Jamal is likely to maintain his spot in goal, given his undoubted prowess and experience. He could nick the place ahead of Jack Komakech and Ismail Watenga.

Right-back: Elvis Bwomono

Bwomono is the only out-and-out right-back on the team despite Kenneth Semakula and Gavin Kizito's past visits in the position. Bwomono offers more balance in defence and attack and could start.

Left-back: Aziz Kayondo

Aziz Kayondo celebrates scoring a goal|FUFA Image

Kayondo has been Uganda's best left-back for over two years and given his consistency, it's hard to think Put will choose away from the Hapoel Tel Aviv man.

Central Defence: Bevis Mugabi

Of the 27 players on the team, Mugabi plays at the highest level (Motherwell in the Scottish Premier League). He is a crucial player for the latter and should be for the Cranes in World Cup qualifiers.

Central Defence: Halid Lwaliwa

Lwaliwa is likely to start against Guinea|FUFA IMAGE

Another Ugandan face at the European stage (North Macedonia's FK Bregalnica Stip), Lwaliwa comes with expertise and invaluable experience in his position. Solid and decent on the ball, Lwaliwa should start.

Midfield: Khalid Aucho (c)

The captain of the dayKhalid Aucho, standing next to goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa|FUFA IMAGE

Aucho is probably the most assured of any member of the squad to start, given the fact that he is the captain, coupled with his experience and ability to shield the defence as well as calm things down in midfield.

Midfield: Ramz Kawooya

Given Bobosi Byaruhanga's injury, there's is no better chance for Kawooya to make his national team debut, despite the stage. He is good enough and a start shouldn't shock the world.

Left Wing: Yunus Sentamu

Yunus Sentamu is among the locally based players in the Uganda Cranes camp|COURTESY

On his return to the national team, Sentamu could get the nod as an inverted left winger. His ability to create, bring others in play and score, make him an invaluable member of the squad.

Right Wing: Milton Karisa

Winger Milton Karisa is in contention for the Cranes|FUFA IMAGE

It's hard to talk of a Ugandan right winger and look beyond Karisa: orthodox, a hard worker, a creator and a leader. He should start ahead of any other possible options in Put's mind.

Forward (10): Bright Anukani

Anukani is one of the most creative forces, and given the options, he operates better than anyone behind the forward (s) in the squad. He could get the nod at this demanding stage.

Forward: Fahad Bayo

Uganda Cranes striker Fahad Bayo in action during an AFCON qualifier | Photo Credit: FUFA Media

Bayo rarely disappoints in national team colours. He is a leader, a natural striker, and has an eye for goal, and it shouldn't come as a surprise should he get the nod over Richard Basangwa.

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