Five Cranes Flying High: Uganda’s stars leading TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 charge
Uganda’s journey at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 has been a story of resilience, revival, and rising belief.
After opening their campaign with a sobering 3–0 defeat to Algeria in Kampala, the Cranes responded like a team on a mission, producing back-to-back wins that have reignited their hopes of a historic run.
A 3–0 victory over Guinea was followed by a 2–0 triumph against Niger at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, lifting them to the top of their group and within touching distance of the quarter-finals.
Their success has been built on tactical discipline, high-intensity pressing, and ruthless efficiency in front of goal.
While the collective unit has been impressive, certain individuals have emerged as the driving force behind Uganda’s turnaround.
From commanding leadership in goal to creativity in midfield and composure in defence, these five players have been the heartbeat of a team determined to make their mark on home soil.
Joel Mutakubwa – The Commanding Captain
As captain and goalkeeper, Mutakubwa has been both the voice and the backbone of this Uganda side.
Even in the defeat to Algeria, his key saves prevented the scoreline from being more damaging. Against Guinea, he marshalled the defence superbly, handling aerial threats with authority.
His standout display came versus Niger, where decisive interventions – including a crucial save from a close-range header – earned him the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award.
Two consecutive clean sheets underline his value as both a leader and a shot-stopper.
Allan Okello – The Midfield Orchestrator
Okello’s influence on the Cranes’ resurgence cannot be overstated.
Against Guinea, he ran the show from midfield, converting a penalty and dictating the tempo with precision.
In the Niger clash, his resilience shone through – bouncing back from a missed penalty to score a fine header and later providing the assist for the second goal.
His ability to control games, create chances, and deliver in key moments has made him the team’s creative heartbeat.
Reagan Mpande – The Relentless Engine
Mpande has been the vital link between defence and attack, blending tireless running with intelligent positioning.
His powerful header opened the scoring against Guinea, breaking the deadlock in a potentially tense contest.
Versus Niger, his aggressive pressing forced mistakes, and it was his determination that won the foul leading to a penalty.
Even when not on the scoresheet, his influence is felt in Uganda’s control of midfield battles.
Joel Sserunjogi – The Wing Menace
Dynamic and direct, Sserunjogi has been a constant headache for opposing full-backs.
His pace and work rate shone against Guinea, where he set up the opener and worked tirelessly in both attack and defence.
Against Niger, he sealed the victory with a thunderous strike after linking up with Okello.
Despite being suspended for the next match due to yellow card accumulation, his impact on Uganda’s campaign so far has been immense.
Hilary Mukundane – The Rock at the Back
Mukundane is the Cranes’ silent enforcer, excelling in the less glamorous but vital aspects of defending.
Positionally disciplined and strong in the air, he has ensured the backline remains organised and difficult to breach.
His leadership in defensive situations has allowed the full-backs to join attacks without fear of leaving gaps.
Two clean sheets in as many games are a testament to his influence in shutting down opposition threats.
Looking Ahead
With momentum firmly on their side, Uganda now have the confidence and structure to push for a place among the continent’s elite at CHAN 2024.
These five standout performers have set the standard – combining experience, energy, and execution – and their continued influence could see the Cranes soar to new heights on home soil.