The Uganda vs Kenya Rugby Africa Cup match kicks off the 2025 tournament. Uganda is set to face seven other nations in the race for a 2027 Rugby World Cup ticket. Since the tournament is knockout, losing on Day One means elimination.
Head coach Fred Mudoola has named his team to face Kenya, Uganda’s regional rival. Consequently, the squad blends experience and fresh talent to secure victory.
Ivan Magomu, last year’s captain, is sidelined due to suspension by the Uganda Rugby Union. Therefore, his number 10 jersey went to Joseph Aredo of KCB-Kobs. Aredo impressed as a substitute against Zimbabwe last year. Now, he starts alongside Aaron Ofoyrwoth.
Moreover, Uganda’s 7s players strengthen the backline. Isaac Massanganzira and Ian Munyani take the midfield, replacing Jones Kamiza and Innocent Gwokto. The backline also features France-based Philip Wokorach at fullback and Adrian Kasito on the wing, wearing number 11. Additionally, Claude Otema plays on the opposite wing.
In the front row, debutant Fahad Maido from Jinja Hippos takes the loosehead prop position. Santos Ssenteza starts at tighthead, with Nathan Bwambale as hooker. Julius Opio and Sidney Gongodyo form the second row. Meanwhile, the back row includes Frank Kidega, captain Byron Oketayot, and Pius Ogena.
Uganda’s bench, called the “bomb squad,” features notable names. Vice-captain Conrad Wanyama, who started as scrumhalf last year, is among the backs. Likewise, Timothy Kisiga and Liam Walker are also on the bench. Eliphaz Emong, Saul Kivumbi, and Alex Aturinda complete the replacements.
The Uganda vs Kenya Rugby Africa Cup rivalry attracts large crowds and fierce competition. Hence, the winner advances to the semifinals while the loser plays in placement matches.
Here is the full Rugby Cranes line-up for the match:
Santos Ssenteza, Nathan Bwambale, Fahad Maido, Julius Opio, Sidney Gongodyo, Frank Kidega, Byron Oketayot, Pius Ogena, Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Joseph Aredo, Adrian Kasito, Isaac Massanganzira, Ian Munyani, Claude Otema, Philip Wokorach.
Bench: Edward Emiemu, Blair Ayebazibwe, Saul Kivumbi, Eliphaz Emong, Alex Aturinda, Conrad Wanyama, Liam Walker, Timothy Kisiga.
