Ugandan football fans have reason to celebrate as Yunus Junior Sentamu, one of the country’s most accomplished strikers, has been named in the 41-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). His inclusion brings a welcome blend of experience and firepower to a youthful team preparing for continental action.
A Standout Season With Vipers SC
Sentamu’s return to the national team is well earned. He’s had a tremendous 2024–25 campaign with Vipers SC, where he played a vital role in helping the club secure both the Uganda Premier League title and the Stanbic Uganda Cup. His sharp goal-scoring instincts, intelligent movement, and leadership on the pitch have been crucial to the club’s domestic double.
National team selectors Fred Muhumuza and Morley Byekwaso recognized this form, rewarding Sentamu with a spot in the provisional team as Uganda begins its CHAN preparations in earnest.
🇺🇬 A Familiar Face on the International Stage
For Sentamu, this is not new territory. He was part of the Uganda Cranes squad during the 2014 CHAN tournament in South Africa and has accumulated over 30 caps for the senior national team. His career has included stints in Tunisia, DR Congo, Finland, and Albania before returning home to continue his journey with Vipers.
This mix of international experience and domestic consistency makes him an ideal inclusion—someone who can mentor younger players while still delivering on the pitch.
Why Sentamu’s Inclusion Matters
- Veteran Presence
Sentamu’s calm demeanor and knowledge of big-game situations provide invaluable leadership in a squad with many newcomers. - Tactical Versatility
He can play as a central striker, second forward, or even on the wing, giving the coaches flexibility in attack. - Reliable Goal Threat
As proven this season, Sentamu still has the killer instinct in front of goal—something Uganda will need at CHAN.
📋 The Squad at a Glance
Uganda’s 41-man provisional squad is composed of
- 5 Goalkeepers
- 13 Defenders
- 12 Midfielders
- 11 Forwards
In addition to Sentamu, notable names include young talents such as James Bogere and Alex Emmanuel Wasswa, demonstrating the coaching staff’s intention to strike a balance between youth and experience.
🏋️♂️ What’s Next?
- Training Camp Starts: The squad is scheduled to enter camp on June 23, where coaches will begin assessing players’ fitness and tactical fit.
- Final Squad Selection: The list will be trimmed from 41 to 23 players ahead of CHAN 2024, which kicks off in August.
- Host Cities: Uganda will co-host the tournament alongside Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar, with Uganda expected to stage the third-place match.
✍️ Final Thoughts
The return of Yunus Sentamu to the Uganda Cranes setup is more than symbolic—it’s strategic. His blend of experience, current form, and leadership could be key to Uganda’s ambitions at CHAN 2024. As preparations begin, all eyes will be on how he performs in training camp and whether he secures a place in the final 23-man squad.
For the fans and teammates alike, Sentamu’s presence signals belief, ambition, and the pursuit of silverware.
