Overview:
22-year-old Rogers Kassim Mato has 41 Uganda caps to his name. He’s scored eight times for his country, including a recent strike at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
Heart of Midlothian Football Club confirmed the signing of Rogers Kassim Mato in the January transfer window.
The Ugandan forward joins the Jambos on an initial loan deal from North Macedonian side FK Vardar until the end of the season, subject to international clearance and Scottish FA approval.
At the end of the season, upon the expiration of his contract with Vardar, Rogers’ permanent three-year contract with Hearts will begin.
22-year-old Rogers has 41 Uganda caps to his name. He’s scored eight times for his country, including a recent strike at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
He arrives in Gorgie off the back of an impressive season in the Balkans, having scored 12 goals in 13 games for Vardar, sending them top of their domestic league.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, Head Coach Derek McInnes remarked; “It’s great work from the club to get Rogers in during this window and I’m really pleased that he’s here and ready to go.
He’s a livewire player, always looking to attack and cause the opposing defence problems. He’s been in to meet the boys and has made a good first impression, and we’re all looking forward to working with him.
Derek McInnes, Head Coach Heart of Midlothian Football Club
Mato commenced his journey at Proline Junior Team. He was promoted to Proline senior team, moved to KCCA FC in Uganda, before moving to Turkey at Şanlıurfaspor.
From Turkey, he joined AP Brera in 2024 before crossing over to FK Vardar.
He is the fourth Ugandan to play for Hearts, joining David Obua (2008-2012), Toby Sibbick (January 2020 to May 2020) and Uche Ikpeazu (2018-2020).
Additional information by Phil Turnbull, head of communications at Heart of Midlothian