Melvyn Lorenzen is one of the fresh additions to Coach Paul Put’s squad as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Primarily utilised in the number 10 role, his inclusion in the final 28-man squad raised eyebrows among the football fraternity, especially since he did not feature in the qualification campaign.
However, his performances in recent friendly matches have provided a clear glimpse into why the gaffer fast-tracked him into the team.
Here is what Lorenzen adds to the Cranes’ tactical setup:
Clinical eye for goal
Uganda faces a daunting task in Group C, drawn alongside continental giants Nigeria, tournament mainstays Tunisia, and regional rivals Tanzania.
To progress, the Cranes need goals from across the pitch, and Lorenzen has already proven he can provide them. In a recent friendly against Chad, he found the net—not via a simple tap-in or penalty, but through a clinical, high-quality strike.
This predatory instinct gives Coach Put a reliable scoring option from the midfield, offering hope to the Cranes faithful.
Elite ball retention
While many players rely on raw speed or quick passing, Lorenzen offers a different dimension: the ability to shield the ball under pressure.
By holding play in congested areas, he allows his teammates to transition into better attacking positions.
This was evident even during Uganda’s difficult loss to Morocco. On a day where the team struggled, Lorenzen remained composed, constantly demanding the ball and navigating tight spaces.
This skill is vital for Paul Put’s tactical system, as it relieves pressure on the holding midfielders and creates windows for runners to exploit.
Physicality and presence
In the high-intensity environment of African football, physical stature is often a deciding factor. Lorenzen provides the Cranes with a rare blend of size and flair.
Aerial dominance: He is a consistent threat in the air, challenging defenders during set-pieces.
Body shielding: He uses his frame effectively to protect the ball and maintain possession.
Tactical distraction: His physical presence in the box unsettles opposition backlines, drawing defenders away and granting more freedom to Uganda’s other forwards.
In 2016, Lorenzen was called up to the Uganda national team and made his debut in a friendly match that Uganda lost 2–0 to Zimbabwe on 31 May 2016.
His path to the national team wasn’t always smooth, especially given his history of declining invitations. Now, he returns as an experienced leader ready to give his all for his country.
The bottom line is though he is a newcomer to the national setup, Melvyn Lorenzen’s unique skill set makes him an essential asset. If Uganda is to make a statement on the continent’s grandest stage, his ability to score, hold play, and physically dominate will be key.