How Fifa window brought renewal to Cranes

What the report says

Uganda’s national football team, the Cranes, appear to have gained momentum during the recent FIFA international window, according to The Observer. Coach Paul Put’s side finished the break, which ended on Monday, October 5, without a defeat across four matches, including a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in a friendly played in South Africa. The newspaper says that run has given the team a stronger sense of direction as they prepare for future competitions, including next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Uganda and the broader push toward 2027.

A major theme in the report is the team’s long-running search for a dependable right-back. The Observer says Uganda has struggled to settle that position since Dennis Guma and before him Simeon Masaba, with several centre-backs being used there in recent years. The article argues that the problem has been compounded by a lack of natural width and quality delivery from that side of defence.

The piece highlights Nathan Asiimwe, a debutant who plays for Salford FC in England, as a possible solution. It points to his assist against Tunisia as evidence that he can offer passing range, balance and crossing ability, while also carrying the ball effectively. More broadly, the report suggests his emergence could help address a key tactical weakness for Uganda as it builds toward major tournaments.