Sand Cranes name squad for Beach Soccer AFCON qualifier vs Burundi

Senegal v Switzerland at the 2021 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. Photo: Voltmetro / Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Uganda Sand Cranes head coach Akabwai Geofrey has named a 13-man squad for the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations 2026 qualifier first leg against Burundi on Saturday.

The team departs Kampala on Thursday ahead of the away tie scheduled for 10 October 2026 in Burundi.

Uganda will host the return leg at Bamboo Gardens in Kasanje on 18 October 2026.

The Sand Cranes received a bye in the first round and open their qualification campaign at this stage.

FUFA honorary executive committee member Kalibbala John Chrizestom leads the 20-member delegation.

Football Development Director Mutyaba Bashir, assistant coach Byaruhanga Rica, team doctor Kulika Ivan, team manager Ssebaggala Tonny and media officer Mutebi Julius complete the technical bench.

Players called up include Omedwa Rogers and Luboyera Hassan of Kampala City BSC, Kirya Samson and Nyalimo Steven of Mutoola BSC, Lule Paul and Ssendi Joseph of Buganda Royal BSC, Kikonogo Jonathan of SLAU BSC, Mukwata Peter Roland of Mutoola BSC, Batibwe Charles Okello of Ntungasazi, Edweu Godfrey of Kampala City BSC, Mbabazi Wirrock Joe of MUBS BSC and Mugisha Jonah of Standard High School Zana.

Akabwai told reporters after the final training session that all players are injury free and ready to represent the country.

The coach expressed confidence that the tactics and preparation are enough to win the first game in Burundi.

The delegation hopes to travel early Thursday morning to acclimatise to the weather and sun before Saturday's kick-off.