The Rugby Cranes fell 26-19 to Zimbabwe in the Africa Sevens Series final at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds on September 27, missing a World Series division three qualifier spot.
Roy Kizito said the squad targeted outright victory to earn a tournament against Germany, Portugal and Uruguay early next year.
Uganda Rugby Union had hoped to host that qualifier, a move that would bring commercial revenue and development funding.
Only six players returned from the 2024 Africa Sevens winning side that beat South Africa 20-17 in Mauritius.
Timothy Mugisha, Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Isaac Massanganzira, Pius Ogena, Timothy Kisiga and Adrian Kasito were all absent for various reasons.
Ian Munyani captained both the 2024 champions and this year's runners-up at Kyadondo.
Coach Allan Otim admitted errors in judgement cost the team after they surrendered a 12-0 lead before half-time.
PK Manyakara's break against the run of play sparked Zimbabwe's comeback in the final play of the first half.
Otim insists the defeat is part of the growth process for a young side seeking more international exposure.
The argument doing the rounds in Kampala is whether URU should have persisted with Tolbert Onyango's experienced core instead of blooding a largely new group.
Key facts from the tournament:
- Final: Zimbabwe 26-19 Uganda
- 2024 Africa Sevens final: Uganda 20-17 South Africa
- Half-time score in final: Uganda led 12-0
- Venue: Kyadondo Rugby Grounds, Lugogo
- Dates: September 26-27, 2025
- Qualifier missed: HSBC Sevens Series division three
- Potential opponents: Germany, Portugal, Uruguay
Source: Uganda Observer
