Group K has emerged as one of the most competitive pools in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, featuring South Africa, Uganda, Congo, and South Sudan.
As the qualifiers reach match day four, Uganda Cranes sit atop the standings with seven points, edging South Africa on the away goal rule. This comes after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Bafana Bafana at Johannesburg’s Orlando Stadium on match day One.
In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho revealed the team’s unwavering determination to maintain their top spot and secure qualification for Africa’s premier tournament in Morocco next year.
ZERO TOLERANCE FOR COMPLACENCY
Although South Africa and Uganda are favored in Group K, veteran midfielder Khalid Aucho warns against underestimating opponents.
Aucho stresses that Uganda’s lead means little without focus, particularly ahead of their match at the Juba Stadium, where they face a South Sudan side seeking revenge after last Friday’s 1-0 loss in Kampala.
“It feels amazing to have seven points and lead the group ahead of South Africa. However, we must maintain our momentum against South Sudan, our immediate opponents,” Aucho stated.
“Winning in front of our passionate fans was exhilarating, and we’re eager to deliver again for those watching from home in Kampala and beyond. The victory was timely because it will boosts the team’s confidence. Our goal is to represent our people with pride, and I have unwavering faith in the team.”
“Playing away means we’ll miss our passionate home crowd, but I appreciate the unwavering support they show us at Nelson Mandela National Stadium. Now, as professionals, we must rise to the challenge and secure a crucial victory against South Sudan.
“We cannot afford to lose focus now; this is a critical period in our AFCON qualification journey. I know the Ugandan people are eager to see us represent the nation in Morocco.”
A WILLING PASSIONATE TEAM
“We’re fully prepared as a team. The boys understand the game’s significance and are willing to give everything to secure the three points,” the captain emphasised.
“Coach Paul Put has blended youth and experience perfectly. Our young players are eager to experience AFCON fever, while veterans are driven to make a mark. Qualifying is crucial for our careers.”
Aucho acknowledged the fans’ patience, saying, “Now’s the time to repay their faith and make them happy. As players, we know the Africa Cup of Nations’ magnitude and will give it our all.”
“Personally, I’m eager to lead by example on the field against South Sudan, giving my best. I know my colleagues share this mindset. The return leg won’t be easy.”
“Preparations have been seamless since arrival. The technical team’s support has been exceptional. We’re ready for South Sudan.”
Aucho concluded, “We have a chance to qualify for Morocco 2025. We must take the big step against South Sudan in Juba.”
AFCON QUALIFICATION REDEMPTION
Uganda’s failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations for the second consecutive time has left a sour taste, especially after missing out on the 2023 Côte d’Ivoire extravaganza.
A 2-0 win over Niger on the final match qualification day offered little solace, as the Cranes finished third, repeating the disappointment of Cameroon 2021.
“Participating in the AFCON is a lifelong dream for every African footballer. As Ugandans, we’re eager to take the stage and make our nation proud. Missing the last two AFCON tournaments in Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon was disappointing for everyone. Our fans were heartbroken, and as players, we shared their pain. But we’ve put that behind us now.” says the Young Africans FC midfielder.
“We have a fresh opportunity to qualify, and we can’t let it slip away. With just a few steps remaining, we’re on the cusp of success. This is a monumental chance for Uganda and for us as players. We’ll give everything on the field to secure victory.
“The young players are eager to play in Morocco at the AFCON, and as a captain I’m ready to lead the team to the tournament. We’ll take it one step at a time and see how it unfolds.”
