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 Gambian player in the 49th minute and did not return to his feet. He was replaced by Joel Mutakubwa.
Watenga was later taken to the hospital in an ambulance for further assessment and it was confirmed that he tore 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, a sudden stop, landing after a jump, or direct contact with the knee.
Whereas the severity of Watenga’s ACL tear is not yet known, majority of such injuries take up to six months or even a year to completely recover.
For a partial ACL tear, recovery time without surgery ranges from 3 to 6 months, with focus put on reducing inflammation, improving knee stability, and gradually increasing mobility through physical therapy.
With the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 slated for December, it is highly unlikely that the goalkeeper will recover in time for the coveted tournament.