Uganda may not be spoken in the same breath as other African sides such as Egypt, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, or Ghana in terms of football, but it is a silent country that has produced great footballers over the years.
Several stars have represented their nation in international tournaments, and some have produced excellently in the Uganda Cranes jersey. Here is a list of the top Ugandan footballers of all time. You can get even more names from other African countries from the Betway insider to learn a thing or two from the past and present.
1. Dennis Onyango
Between the posts, there is no better shot-stopper than Dennis Onyango, not only Uganda’s best, but Africa’s best. The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper has been producing match-winning performances for his club and country in a consistent manner over the last few years. Known for his flexibility and good ball distribution, Dennis Onyango pips Paul Ssali in the position, but it could be a subject of debate given how the later performed in the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations. His current side is among the favorites to secure the ABSA Premier League with Betway, as well as the African Champions League.
2. Eddy Ssemwanga
Another big name to feature in the 1978 Nations Cup, the former Masaka Union right back was known for his overlaps and swift defending abilities. The new generation of fans have certainly missed this talent.
3. Ashe Mukasa
He turned out for Ugandan sides Express, KCCA, and NIC back in his day. So strong was Mukasa, he was the top performer in the penultimate finals of the 1978 CAN. He’s known for his tough build, stamina, and speed.
4. Paul Kasule
He may not be playing today, but he remains a defender whose name will forever be sung by Ugandan faithful. He was an ever-present figure for the Cranes back in the 70s.
5. Jimmy Kirunda
A tough tackler, and a threat going forward. You don’t get such a player very often, but in Jimmy that is what Uganda Cranes had.
6. Mike Kiganda
He was nicknamed ‘computer’, and for a good reason. He was the best in his position by miles thanks to his game-reading abilities. His name came from his dribbling and defense-splitting passes that always caused problems for opponents.
7. Stanley Mubiru
The “Tank” was short in stature, but strongly built. He was popular for his runs on the flanks and his final powerful shots that made him one of the easiest bets to score in his time.
8. Moses Nsereko
He led his KCCA side to the CECAFA club title in 1978, as well as leading the Cranes to the finals of the ACN in the same year.
9. Majid Musisi
The most lethal striker Uganda has ever seen, Musisi opened the doors for other East African players to try their hands in Europe. Musisi played in both France and Turkey. Sadly, he died in 2005.
10. Philip Omondi
To have Abedi Pele say he was greatly inspired by Omondi is no mean feat. In ‘Omo”, Uganda had their own Maradona.
11. Godfrey Kateregga
He is one of the youngest members on the list, and to feature among these greats means he was strong in his position. He was famous for his fine dribbling skills and heavy shots that made him one of the most lethal strikers to pull the Cranes shirt.
