Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Ismail Watenga has been dominated out of motion after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) harm throughout Uganda’s latest World Cup qualifying conflict in opposition to The Gambia.
The Federation of Uganda Soccer Associations (FUFA) confirmed the event on Monday, noting that the skilled shot-stopper shall be sidelined for a major interval. Watenga picked up the harm in the course of the match performed in Kampala, the place Uganda earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over The Gambia.
Based on FUFA, the 29-year-old underwent medical scans that exposed an ACL tear, a severe knee harm that sometimes requires surgical procedure and prolonged rehabilitation. Whereas FUFA didn’t verify the precise length of Watenga’s absence, ACL accidents usually take six to 9 months for full restoration, relying on the severity and remedy.
This harm comes as a significant setback for each the nationwide workforce and the participant himself. Watenga, who plies his commerce with South African membership Golden Arrows, has been a key determine for the Cranes lately, providing expertise and stability between the posts.
His absence leaves head coach Paul Put with a goalkeeping dilemma forward of Uganda’s remaining FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming CECAFA Senior Problem Cup. Backup keepers reminiscent of Salim Jamal Magoola and Nafian Alionzi are anticipated to step up in Watenga’s absence.
In an announcement, FUFA expressed its help for the injured goalkeeper:
“We stand with Ismail Watenga throughout this troublesome time and want him a speedy restoration. The federation, medical workforce, and training workers will proceed to supply him all the required help.”
Watenga’s harm provides to a rising record of health considerations for the Cranes as they search to keep up momentum of their World Cup qualification marketing campaign. His restoration shall be carefully monitored within the coming months.
