Uganda Cranes’ Tactical Headache: The Midfield Battle That Could Decide Their 2025 AFCON Qualifier

As the Uganda Cranes prepare for a crucial double-header in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, all eyes will be on the midfield. This weekend’s home fixture against South Africa, scheduled for Friday, could be the defining moment in their quest to secure a spot in the prestigious continental competition. With Uganda sitting top of Group K with 10 points, just two points ahead of second-placed South Africa (8 points), a win for the Cranes would guarantee their qualification after missing out on the last two editions of the tournament.

However, despite their position at the top of the group, Uganda’s coach, Paul Put, faces a tactical dilemma that could decide the outcome of the match. The key to unlocking South Africa’s defense and maintaining control of the game lies in the middle of the park, where the battle between defensive and attacking options will be critical.

The Midfield Conundrum: Two Defensive Midfielders or an Offensive Push?

Paul Put has historically preferred a solid, disciplined midfield foundation, and this time around, he has two key defensive midfielders—Khalid Aucho and Ronald Sekiganda—at his disposal. The inclusion of two holding midfielders has worked well for the Cranes in the past, providing stability and protection for the backline. Both Aucho and Sekiganda are known for their tough tackling and ability to break up opposition attacks, which could be essential against a South Africa side that is both fast and physically strong.

Yet, the team’s most recent performance against South Sudan highlighted the limitations of this setup. Playing with two defensive midfielders can often stifle Uganda’s attacking play, leaving the team without the creative spark needed to break down compact defenses. During that match, a tactical switch saw Allan Okello and Bobosi Byaruhanga replace Sekiganda and Mutyaba Travis, and the change had an immediate impact. The fresh legs and creativity of Okello and Byaruhanga added an attacking dimension that was missing earlier in the game, culminating in Brevis Mugabi’s well-taken goal.

The Big Question: Will Paul Put Stick With His Defensive Strategy?

This raises an important question: will Coach Paul Put stick with his traditional two defensive midfielders or opt for a more offensive-minded approach, pushing Allan Okello or Travis Mutyaba into the starting lineup? Okello, known for his vision and passing range, could add a much-needed spark in the final third, while Mutyaba, with his technical ability, has the capacity to link play and create goal-scoring opportunities.

The temptation to play a more attacking setup is there, especially given the importance of the match. A win would secure qualification for the Cranes, and an attacking approach could provide the momentum needed to break down South Africa’s defense. However, Put will also be wary of the dangers of leaving his defense exposed, particularly against a team as dangerous as South Africa.

Defensive Changes: Shuffling the Backline

Another area where the Cranes are likely to make adjustments is in defense. With veteran center-back Capradosi absent from the squad, Brevis Mugabi will likely partner with either Timothy Awany or Halid Lwaliwa at the heart of defense. Mugabi has been a key player in recent matches and has formed solid partnerships with different defenders, while Awany and Lwaliwa both bring different qualities to the table. Awany’s strength and leadership qualities could provide the physicality needed to deal with South Africa’s aerial threat, while Lwaliwa’s composure and ball-playing ability might be crucial in building from the back.

Predicted Starting XI

Given the tactical considerations and the need to balance defensive solidity with attacking threat, here’s my predicted starting lineup for Uganda Cranes against South Africa:

• Goalkeeper: Ismail Watenga
• Right-back: Gavin Kizito
• Center-backs: Brevis Mugabi, Halid Lwaliwa
• Left-back: Aziz Kayondo
• Midfield: Khalid Aucho, Taddeo Lwanga, Travis Mutyaba
• Attacking Midfield: Dennis Omedi, Rogers Mato
• Striker: Steven Mukwala

This lineup keeps the backbone of the Cranes’ defensive structure intact with two holding midfielders, while adding some creativity and attacking thrust with Mutyaba in the midfield and Rogers Mato in an advanced role. The front three of Omedi, Mato, and Mukwala will look to stretch South Africa’s defense, while the full-backs, particularly Kayondo, will look to support the attack and provide width.

The Path to 2025 AFCON

With Uganda so close to securing qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, every decision made by Coach Paul Put in the build-up to this crucial fixture will carry significant weight. Will he opt for stability with his tried-and-tested defensive midfield duo, or take a risk with a more fluid, attacking approach? Whatever the choice, one thing is certain: the Cranes’ midfield will be the battleground where this match is won or lost.

For the players, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A victory over South Africa would secure Uganda’s place in the 2025 AFCON and send a clear message that they are back among Africa’s elite footballing nations. The tactical decisions made this week could very well determine the course of Uganda’s future on the continental stage.