Gor Mahia midfielder earns call up to Uganda Cranes squad

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FKFPL Gor Mahia midfielder earns call up to Uganda Cranes squad

Festus Chuma 12:39 - 05.10.2023

The Gor Mahia rising star has earned a Uganda Cranes call-up ahead of games against Mali and Zambia.

Gor Mahia midfield maestro Rogers Mugisha has earned a well-deserved spot in the Uganda Cranes squad for their upcoming friendlies against Mali and Zambia. 

Uganda national team interim coach Morley Byekwaso Ochama, recognising Mugisha's prowess on the pitch, has included him in the 36-player provisional squad for the October international break.

Mugisha, a rising star in Ugandan football, previously showcased his talent on the international stage as a key player in the Uganda Hippos team during the U20 AFCON tournament held in Egypt. 

His standout performance earned him the prestigious title of the Man of the Match in Uganda's clash against the Central African Republic, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with. 

Additionally, Mugisha's consistent excellence led to his inclusion in the Best XI of the group stages, marking him as one of the tournament's standout performers.

The midfielder's journey to success began with the U17 national team, where he played a pivotal role in Uganda's representation at the U17 AFCON tournament in 2018 in Tanzania. 

Mugisha's progression through the ranks is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination to make a mark in Ugandan football.

Notably, Mugisha has been a crucial part of Gor Mahia, contributing significantly to the team's success. Fans eagerly anticipate Mugisha's dual challenge as he prepares to feature in the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby for Gor Mahia this Saturday before joining the national team in their international endeavors.

While Mugisha is set to make headlines on the international stage, the squad announcement also features seasoned players, including the experienced Khalid Aucho, who currently plies his trade for Yanga in Tanzania. 

However, there are notable omissions, with no room for Bandari's sharpshooter Derrick Nsibambi and his teammate William Wadri, raising eyebrows among fans.

As the Uganda Cranes gear up for their friendlies against Mali on October 13th in Bamako and Zambia in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Mugisha's inclusion injects a fresh sense of excitement into the squad. 

With the Uganda Cranes entering a residential camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi, fans eagerly await Mugisha's performances in the upcoming friendlies, hoping he continues to make waves on the international stage and brings pride to Ugandan football.

Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi Legason (Ethiopia Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago (Hawassa City FC, Ethiopia), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC, Uganda), Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Jack Komakech (Vipers SC, Uganda), Derrick Ochan (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Defenders: Kenneth Semakula (SC Villa, Uganda), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa, Uganda), Elvis Bwomono Okello (IBV Vestamanyaer, Iceland), Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (Hapoel Tel Aviv FC, Israel), Ibrahim Juma (CD Leganes, Spain), Halidi Lwaliwa (FK Bregalnica, North Macedonia), Livingstone Mulondo (Vipers SC, Uganda), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC, Uganda), Najib Fesali (URA FC, Uganda), Hudu Mulikyi (URA FC, Uganda)

Midfielders: Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa, Uganda), Ivan Irinimbabazi (Soltilo Bright Stars FC, Uganda), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin FC, USA), Fiat Cleophus (Soltilo Bright Stars FC, Uganda), Khalid Aucho (Yanga FC, Tanzania), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC, Uganda), Isma Mugulusi (Fereinse FC, Portugal), Arafat Usama Kizza (KCCA FC, Uganda), Ibrahim Kasule (New York Red Bull II, USA), Laban Tibiita (URA FC, Uganda), Bright Anukani (Vipers SC, Uganda), Rogers Mugisha (Gor Mahia FC, Kenya)

Forwards: Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Fred Amaku (Maroons FC, Uganda), Lawrence Tezikya (BUL FC, Uganda), Richard Basangwa (Wadi Degla SC, Egypt), Frank Ssebufu (New York Red Bull II, USA), Milton Karisa (Vipers SC, Uganda), Rogers Kassim Mato(Sanliurfaspor FC, Turkey), Simon Peter Oketch (Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Ethiopia)