Watenga likely to miss AFCON after suffering injury

Goalkeeper Isima Watenga is likely to be out for long spells after suffering a knee injury as Uganda played out a one-all draw with The Gambia in an international friendly match on Monday in Morocco.

The shot stopper went into a challenge with a Gambia player in the 49th minute and he did not return to his feet. He was later replaced by Joel Mutakubwa.

Watenga was later taken to hospital in an ambulance for further assessment and it was confirmed that he raptured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and thus will require surgery.

“Following last night’s assessments, Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Isima Watenga has been diagnosed with a right knee ACL injury. Sadly he will need surgery upon his return from camp.” Confirms a statement from FUFA.

An ACL injury occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament is either stretched, partially torn, or completely torn.

The underlying mechanism often involves a rapid change in direction, sudden stop, landing after a jump, or direct contact to the knee.

Whereas the severity of Watenga’s ACL tear is not known, majority of such injuries take up to six months or even a year to completely recover.

With Africa Cup of Nations 2025 slated for December, it is highly unlikely that the goalkeeper will recover in time for the coveted tournament.

The post Watenga likely to miss AFCON after suffering injury appeared first on Kawowo Sports.