Gor Mahia midfielder secures spot in Uganda Cranes final squad for Mali, Zambia friendlies

Gor Mahia midfield sensation Rogers Mugisha has clinched a coveted spot in the final 23-man squad for the Uganda Cranes' upcoming friendlies against Mali and Zambia. 

The announcement came after Cranes caretaker coach Morley Bwekwaso unveiled his carefully selected squad, marking a significant milestone for the Ugandan prodigy.

Uganda Cranes embarked on their journey to Bamako, Mali, with only foreign-based players Abdu Aziizi Kayondo and Halidi Lwaliwa accompanying them from Uganda.

The rest of the foreign-based players, including the remarkable Mugisha, are set to join the squad directly from their respective clubs.

Mugisha's inclusion in the national team is a well-deserved recognition of his recent outstanding performances, particularly in the Mashemeji Derby for Gor Mahia. 

During this fiercely contested derby, the Ugandan prodigy showcased his prowess on both flanks, consistently interchanging with Rwandan sensation Patrick Sibomana. 

Together, they orchestrated brilliant moves that stretched the opposing Leopards' defense, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of their chemistry and skill.

Caretaker coach Morley Bwekwaso faced the challenging task of selecting the final squad from an initial pool of 36 talented players. 

However, it became evident that Mugisha's exceptional abilities and contributions on the field had secured his place among the chosen few.

The Uganda Cranes' journey begins with a clash against Mali on Friday 13 October in Bamako.

Following the Mali fixture, the Cranes will fly to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where they will take on Zambia in another exciting friendly match.

Goalkeepers: Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC, Uganda), Jack Komakech (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Defenders: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa, Uganda), Kenneth Semakula (SC Villa, Uganda), Elvis Bwomono (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), Hudu Mulikyi (URA FC, Uganda), Enock Walusimbi (URA FC, Uganda)

Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Yanga FC, Tanzania), Rogers Mugisha (Gor Mahia FC, Kenya), Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa, Uganda), Bright Anukani (Vipers SC, Uganda), Laban Tibiita (URA FC, Uganda), Ibrahim Kasule (New York Red Bull II, USA), Arafat Kizza Usama (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Forwards: Milton Karisa (Vipers SC, Uganda), Richard Basangwa (Wadi Degla SC, Uganda), Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Lawrence Tezikya (BUL FC, Uganda), Rogers Kassim Mato (Sanliurfaspor FC, Turkey)