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Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Ismail Watenga has been ruled out of action after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during Uganda’s recent World Cup qualifying clash against The Gambia.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) confirmed the development on Monday, noting that the experienced shot-stopper will be sidelined for a significant period. Watenga picked up the injury during the match played in Kampala, where Uganda earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over The Gambia.
According to FUFA, the 29-year-old underwent medical scans that revealed an ACL tear, a serious knee injury that typically requires surgery and lengthy rehabilitation. While FUFA did not confirm the exact duration of Watenga’s absence, ACL injuries generally take six to nine months for full recovery, depending on the severity and treatment.
This injury comes as a major setback for both the national team and the player himself. Watenga, who plies his trade with South African club Golden Arrows, has been a key figure for the Cranes in recent years, offering experience and stability between the posts.
His absence leaves head coach Paul Put with a goalkeeping dilemma ahead of Uganda’s remaining FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup. Backup keepers such as Salim Jamal Magoola and Nafian Alionzi are expected to step up in Watenga’s absence.
In a statement, FUFA expressed its support for the injured goalkeeper:
“We stand with Ismail Watenga during this difficult time and wish him a speedy recovery. The federation, medical team, and coaching staff will continue to offer him all the necessary support.”
Watenga’s injury adds to a growing list of fitness concerns for the Cranes as they seek to maintain momentum in their World Cup qualification campaign. His recovery will be closely monitored in the coming months.
