Allowance Dispute Grounds Uganda Cranes Training Ahead of AFCON Opener

|By Babatunji Wusu

Uganda’s senior men’s national team, the Cranes, halted training on Saturday in protest over unpaid allowances, raising fresh concerns just days before their opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Reports indicate that the players are demanding the payment of outstanding allowances from the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. They are also seeking clear information on the exact bonuses and entitlements they will receive during the tournament.

The protest prompted swift intervention from the President of the Uganda Football Association (FUFA), David Magogo, who reportedly stepped in to engage the players and resolve the impasse.

The development comes at a critical moment for the Cranes, who are scheduled to begin their AFCON campaign on Tuesday against former champions Tunisia, known as the Carthage Eagles, in Fès.

Uganda has been drawn in a challenging group that also features three-time champions Nigeria and East African rivals Tanzania, making early preparation crucial as the team eyes a strong start to the continental showpiece.