The Uganda Cranes have become the first nation to arrive in Morocco ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, signaling their intention to make a bold statement when the tournament kicks off on 21 December 2025.
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Head of the national team delegation, Dr. Apollo Ahimbisimbwe, said the early arrival reflects the team’s new mentality, ambition, and belief that they can spring surprises against the continent’s giants.
“There has been a big shift in our mindset. The players have a new belief, a new will not to lose. We are here early because we want to prepare properly and compete strongly,” he said.
Uganda are drawn in Group C, a challenging group that includes Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania — all strong opponents with rich AFCON pedigree. Yet Ahimbisimbwe insists the Cranes are not in Morocco to simply participate.
“We know what lies ahead. We respect every team in our group, but we are also ready to fight for qualification. We want to make it out of the group,” he added.
He emphasized that the early arrival is part of a deliberate plan to acclimatize to Moroccan weather, altitude, and training conditions, giving the players more time to adapt before the heavy competition begins.
“Arriving early helps us settle, train properly, and avoid surprises. Preparation is everything at tournaments like this,” he noted.
With Uganda returning to AFCON after rebuilding their squad, Ahimbisimbwe said the players have embraced a competitive spirit and are eager to show the continent that the Cranes are evolving.
“This team now believes in itself. There is hunger, there is discipline, and there is a desire to prove we can stand with the best,” he stated.
He added that the coaching crew has been meticulous in analyzing opponents and crafting strategies that will give Uganda a real chance of progressing.
“We are prepared. We know our opponents’ strengths, and we know what we must do. The goal is clear, qualify first, then dream bigger,” he concluded.
