Aucho tables retirement from international football

DAR ES SALAAM: Uganda Cranes captain, Khalid Aucho, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end a 13-year career representing his country on the international stage.

In a statement released on October 12, 2026, Aucho said he had decided to conclude his journey with the national team, reflecting on the experiences he gained and the honour of leading Uganda as captain.

“Since making my international debut on November 30, 2013, I have made a total of 77 appearances and had the great honour of captaining our national team. Wearing the black, yellow and red jersey has been the greatest honour of my life,” Aucho said.

He also reflected on his humble beginnings and the childhood dream that inspired his football career.

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“When I was a young boy working at the Bugembe market slaughterhouse, my dream was simple: to hear our national anthem played on the biggest football stages in the world,” he wrote.

Aucho said he was proud to have been part of the squad that helped Uganda qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a 38-year wait. He also highlighted his participation in three editions of the continental tournament and the privilege of leading his country on the pitch as captain.

His retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in his international career, during which he represented Uganda in 77 matches and served as captain of the national team.