AFCON 2025: Uganda Cranes Keeper Opens Up on First-Day Struggles as He Eyes Huge Opportunity Ahead

Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Alionzi Nafian shared his thoughts after the team's first training session in preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), acknowledging the initial physical challenges while embracing the significance of the tournament.

The squad began their camp with a light session designed to help them recover from their journey. Alionzi Nafian admitted that the first day back is always demanding.

"The first day is not bad. Of course, you will feel a bit tired, and the muscles will be a bit stiff, but we try to loosen up," he explained, as quoted by FUFA. "The first day is always hard, but we have really tried to give our best."

For Alionzi Nafian, participating in AFCON is the pinnacle of African football, a stage that has launched the careers of many legends. He expressed his pride in being part of the continent's most prestigious competition.

"It is the biggest level of football in Africa, where every player wants to play, and it has produced so many great players," Nafian stated. "So, it is a great feeling to be part of the biggest game in Africa."

The goalkeeper also offered words of encouragement to young, aspiring footballers in Uganda, emphasising the importance of discipline and having role models.

"The only thing I can tell them is to be disciplined and to have inspirations, to have models and follow the players," he advised.

"The biggest game in Africa is produced to get inspired, and they should always work hard to also get where we are right now in Africa and become part of the continent’s greatest players."

The Cranes will continue their training camp in Morocco, where they are scheduled to play two friendly matches.

The team will face CAF Champions League contenders FAR Rabat on December 13, followed by a match against Gabon on December 17, as they finalise their preparations for the tournament.