Rogers Mato relishes AFCON 2025 opportunity with Uganda Cranes
The 22-year-old described his inclusion in the squad as both a great honour and a reward for years of hard work.
Rogers Mato. AFP PHOTO
Uganda Cranes forward Rogers Mato says representing his country at the upcoming TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 is a proud milestone in his career.
The 22-year-old described his inclusion in the squad as both a great honour and a reward for years of hard work.
“Being part of this team is a dream come true. It is a wonderful group with experienced players and upcoming ones. I feel grateful and honoured to represent my country,” Mato said.
Mato acknowledged that AFCON ranks among the biggest tournaments he has ever featured in. “I have played in the Conference League, which is also a big competition, but AFCON is one of the biggest tournaments in the world. It is a big achievement for me and my career,” he added.
The 35th AFCON tournament kicks off on December 21 in Morocco, with the final set for January 18 in Rabat. Uganda returns to the continental showpiece for the first time since 2019, when they exited at the round of 16. The Cranes are also building momentum towards hosting the 2027 AFCON finals.
Under head coach Paul Put, Uganda finished second in their World Cup qualifying group behind Algeria. Mato emerged as joint-top scorer for the Cranes with three goals, including two stunning strikes in the September victory over Mozambique. He has continued his fine form at FK Vardar Skopje in the North Macedonian league.
Uganda faces a tough challenge in Group C, where they will battle former champions Nigeria and Tunisia, alongside East African neighbours Tanzania. Mato’s pace and finishing could prove decisive as the Cranes push for a place in the knockout stages.
Born and raised in Uganda, Mato began his football journey at Lweza FC before moving to Proline FC, where he helped secure promotion. He later joined KCCA FC, one of Uganda’s top clubs, and his performances earned him a move to Europe.
His first stint abroad came in Turkey with Şanlıurfaspor, before joining Brera Strumica in North Macedonia, where he developed into a strong attacking player. His consistent displays earned him a mid-season transfer to FK Vardar Skopje, where he continues to shine.
Despite his young age, Mato already boasts silverware, having won the Macedonian Cup with Vardar during the 2024/25 season. He was also voted Uganda’s Best Foreign Player in 2024.
The Cranes continue their AFCON preparations in Morocco with a friendly against Gabon on Wednesday, December 17, following a 2-2 draw with Moroccan CAF Champions League side AS FAR Rabat on Saturday, December 13. Uganda will open their AFCON campaign against Tunisia on December 23.