Uganda Cranes will today take on visiting Madagascar in a friendly match at Star Times Stadium, Lugogo.

Cranes will be using the tie to sharpen for their crunch 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying Group E fixture against the Black Stars of Ghana at Nelson Mandela Stadium, Namboole Saturday.

Placed second on seven points behind leaders Egypt (nine points) in the group’s standings, the Cranes are realistically chasing a maiden WC appearance.

The East Africans forced a barren draw in the first leg in Tamale in October.

Romania’s CSM Polithecnica influential midfielder William Kizito Luwagga joined camp Monday evening and is ready for selection today.

“I’m happy that this time I’ve reported early in camp not like the previous game where I arrived on the eve of the game against Egypt,” Kizito said.

Cranes bagged three points in their last two outings – edging Egypt 1-0 at home before losing by the same margin in the return leg.

In the other group match Sunday, the leaders Egypt will host bottom placed Congo at Borg El Arab Stadium, Alexandria.

A win coupled with a favorable result in Kampala will see them through to Russia.

The Squad:

Goalkeepers: Benjamin Ochan & Ismail Watenga

Outfield players: Nico Wadada, Denis Iguma, Savio Kabugo, Bernard Muwanga, Isaac Muleme, Timothy Awanyi, Ivan Ntege, Tom Masiko, Muzamir Mutyaba, Tom Masiko, Derrick Nsibambi, Nelson Senkatuka, Isaac Isinde, Joseph Ochaya, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa, Tonny Mawejje, William Kizito Luwagga, Emmanuel Okwi, Edrisa Lubega & Geofrey Serunkuma