
Salim Jamal Responds to debarment from Uganda Cranes Squad for AFCON Qualifiers
Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Salim Jamal has addressed his recent exclusion from the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against South Africa and Congo. In a tweet posted shortly after the squad announcement, Jamal defended his professionalism and refuted claims of indiscipline that have been linked to him in the past.
Jamal, who has played for six professional clubs without facing any suspensions, expressed frustration over his omission from the 28-man provisional squad revealed by head coach Paul Put on Tuesday. He emphasized that being straightforward should not be equated with indiscipline. “Being straight isn’t indiscipline and I have never been an indisciplined player,” Jamal stated, underscoring his commitment to maintaining a professional demeanor both on and off the pitch.
The squad announcement included goalkeepers Isima Watenga from Golden Arrows FC, Nafian Alionzi of Defence Forces FC, and Charles Lukwago from Venda FC. Despite Jamal’s extensive experience and past contributions, he was not selected. His absence from the squad has sparked discussion, particularly given his history of public disagreements with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA). In 2020, Jamal faced criticism for comments made on social media during the 2019 AFCON tournament in Egypt.
In addition to Jamal’s exclusion, the squad also features other notable names, including defenders Elvis Bwomono, Isaac Muleme, and midfielders such as Khalid Aucho and Bobosi Byaruhanga. Youngster Calvin Kabuye, formerly a Sweden U-23 player, has also been included, adding a fresh dynamic to the squad.
The Uganda Cranes are scheduled to travel to South Africa on Saturday, August 31, to prepare for their opening game in the doubleheader against South Africa and Congo. As the team gears up for these critical qualifiers, Jamal’s response highlights the ongoing debate about player selection and the impact of past controversies on current decisions.