Khalid Aucho: “Uganda can surprise Africa at AFCON 2025”

Uganda’s return to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations will see them face one of the toughest groups of the tournament in Morocco this December. 

The Cranes are drawn against Nigeria, Tunisia and neighbours Tanzania, in what promises to be a test of resilience and belief. 

Central to their hopes is captain Khalid Aucho, the 32-year-old midfielder who brings a wealth of experience from club football across Africa, Europe and Asia. 

Aucho has previously starred for Tanzanian giants Young Africans (Yanga) and now turns out for Singida Black Stars, giving him intimate knowledge of East African rivals. 

This will be another chance for the combative midfielder to inspire Uganda, who last reached the knockout stages in 2019. 

With his leadership and perspective, Aucho believes the Cranes are ready to fight and make a bigger impact this time.

Q: Uganda face Nigeria, Tunisia and Tanzania in Group B. How do you assess the challenge?

Aucho: It’s not an easy group. These are big nations, all with ambition to lead the table. But we also know our capabilities. With the experience we have added to the squad, we can combine well and compete. It will be tough, but I believe we can advance to the next round.

Q: You have played in Tanzania for Yanga and now Singida Black Stars. Does that give you an edge against Tanzania in the derby?

Aucho: Absolutely. The derby atmosphere in Tanzania is incredible — the passion, the songs, the huge crowds. Playing in that environment prepares you mentally for pressure situations. I know what to expect from Tanzania, and I think this experience will help our boys handle the occasion better.

Q: How important is the role of experienced players like yourself in this squad?

Aucho: Experience brings calmness and guidance. The young players are humble and willing to listen, and that makes it easier for us seniors to share advice. Blending youth and experience creates balance — the energy of the young ones and the composure of the older ones. That brotherhood is what drives us forward.

Q: Uganda last reached the Round of 16 in 2019. What are your ambitions this time?

Aucho: For us, reaching the round of 16 again is not enough. Our ambition now is to go further — to the quarter-finals, and who knows, maybe even the semis or the final. Step by step, but always aiming higher.

Q: Which teams do you see as the main favourites for AFCON 2025?

Aucho: Senegal remain very strong, with quality all over the pitch. Morocco as hosts will be dangerous, Cameroon and Ivory Coast always compete well, and Egypt’s history speaks for itself. But we are here to compete too. We want to show Africa that Uganda belongs on this stage.

Q: Who are the jokers and personalities in the Cranes dressing room?
Aucho: (Laughs) We have a few. Aziz Koyondo and Patrick Kakande are always joking, keeping the atmosphere light. Allan Okello likes to be the DJ, while Steven Mukwala sometimes plays DJ Mafia boss! It’s important — we need those vibes to stay relaxed and united.

Q: And who works hardest in training and the gym?

Aucho: Many of us push hard. I like being in the gym, and some of the young boys also enjoy it. It’s good for their development. Hard work in training reflects on the pitch.

Q: What message do you have for Ugandan fans ahead of Morocco?

Aucho: First of all, thank you. The fans have always been there for us — men’s, women’s, and youth teams. Their support, whether in Morocco or back home, gives us courage. We promise to fight for every ball and make them proud.

Q: At 32, how do you personally approach this tournament?

Aucho: With maturity and responsibility. I’ve played in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Serbia, Egypt, India and now Tanzania — all those experiences have shaped me. I know this could be one of my last AFCONs, so I want to give everything for my country.

Q: Finally, what would success look like for Uganda in this AFCON?

Aucho: Success would be progressing further than before, reaching at least the quarter-finals. But equally, it’s about showing character, discipline, and togetherness. If we leave Morocco having earned respect and belief, then we will have done something important for Ugandan football.