Usama Arafat: Ismail Watenga salutes young brother on making Uganda Cranes debut

Usama Arafat (L) with his elder brother Ismail Watenga|FUFA IMAGE

FOOTBALL Usama Arafat: Ismail Watenga salutes young brother on making Uganda Cranes debut

Allan Damba • 13:49 - 14.10.2023

Meanwhile, Watenga wants their story to inspire many other budding stars: "I hope our journey inspires young boys and girls from Nakaloke, Mbale, and beyond."

Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Ismail Watenga has paid homage to his younger brother, Usama Arafat Kizza, for making his national senior debut.

Arafat came off the bench to feature for the Cranes as they lost 1-0 to West African powerhouse Mali in an international friendly on Friday in Bamako.

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I am proud of you, my young brother Usama Arafat," Watenga spoke of his brother on his social media handles.

"Reaching this level is a testament that hard work pays off, but this is just the beginning," Watenga said.

The Uganda Cranes team that started the game against Mali|FUFA IMAGE

Arafat, a revelation at his club KCCA FC this season, was rewarded a call and a debut by interim head coach Morley Byekwaso for his blistering form.

Before the summon, he had scored two goals and assisted once in the past four games in all competitions for the Kasasiro Boys.

Meanwhile, Watenga wants their story to inspire many other budding stars: "I hope our journey inspires young boys and girls from Nakaloke, Mbale, and beyond."

"To know it’s possible to achieve your dreams with dedication and effort. We’re excited to be here, and we encourage you to dream big and work hard to reach your goals.”

On the other hand, Watenga, who features for South Africa's Golden Arrows on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns, didn't make the match-day squad, as he was injured.

However, despite the injury, Watenga kept with the team and awaits to be seen whether he will recover in time to play against Zambia in the next friendly, slated for October 17 in Dubai.