Uganda’s national football leadership has mobilized public support for an upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Botswana. According to Nile Post, head coach Paul Put and captain Denis Onyango are urging citizens to attend the Saturday fixture at Hoima City Stadium. The match carries added emotional weight as it marks the international retirement of former skipper Khalid Aucho. The coaching staff and senior players view the encounter as a pivotal moment to secure qualification points while honoring a club legend.
Put emphasized that the squad is confident and ready to compete. He warned that Botswana should not be dismissed lightly, noting that the visitors remain dangerous even when playing on foreign soil. The coach stated that the team is fully committed to winning the match and securing all three available points. Put explicitly dedicated the potential victory to Aucho, recognizing the defender’s extensive service to the national side. He also stressed that strong attendance from fans and media coverage provides crucial motivation for the players on the pitch.
Denis Onyango thanked supporters for their previous engagement during the September 29 qualifier against Libya. He asked the public to fill the stadium again to back the team. Onyango praised the Federation of Uganda Football Associations for recalling Aucho for a farewell appearance. He described the move as a positive example that could motivate younger athletes to strive for similar honors. The captain suggested that recognizing veteran contributions should become a standard practice within Ugandan football.
Onyango noted that Aucho will automatically wear the captain’s armband when he enters the field. He stated that the current squad still views Aucho as their leader due to his long-standing dedication. The captain added that Aucho’s presence in camp has lifted team morale. While Onyango hoped Aucho might continue supporting the squad during preparations for next year’s AFCON, he acknowledged that such a role depends on decisions by the federation and technical staff. The players aim to deliver a clean sheet and a win as a final tribute to their former leader.