Defensive midfielder Khalid Aucho has officially closed the chapter on his international football career, announcing his retirement from the Uganda national team, The Cranes, after 13 years of service.
Aucho, who previously captained the team, leaves behind a record of 77 international appearances since making his debut for Uganda on November 30, 2013.
In a statement released on October 12, 2026, the midfielder said representing his country had been one of the greatest honours of his life. He added that wearing the jersey bearing Uganda’s national colours was something he would always carry with pride, even after retirement.
His journey with The Cranes has been associated with significant milestones in Ugandan football, including qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals after the country waited 38 years to return to the tournament. Aucho was also part of the squad that competed in three editions of AFCON.
The midfielder revealed that his football journey began with a dream of seeing Uganda compete on the biggest international stages. As a young man, he worked at a slaughterhouse in Bugembe Market, but his ambitions extended far beyond the circumstances in which he grew up.
From those humble beginnings to becoming a national team player and later captain, Aucho said his achievements were the result of belief, hard work and the support he received from various people throughout his career.
In his farewell message, he thanked FUFA, the coaches who helped develop him as a footballer, his teammates and the fans who stood behind the team throughout his time with the national side.
He paid special tribute to coaches Milutin “Micho” Sredojević, Sébastien Desabre, Johnathan McKinstry and Paul Put, while also remembering the contribution of the late Fred Kajoba to his football career.
Addressing the fans, Aucho said their support, particularly at Namboole Stadium, had been an important part of his journey. He noted that their encouragement gave the team the strength to keep fighting during difficult moments.
However, his retirement does not mean he is turning his back on Ugandan football. Aucho said he remains committed to supporting the national team, expressing confidence that a new generation now has the opportunity to step forward and continue building The Cranes’ history.
He concluded his message by expressing gratitude, pride and deep love for his country, stressing that although he would no longer wear Uganda’s jersey as an international player, his connection with the national team would endure.
Thirteen years, 77 appearances and the responsibility of captaincy are among the lasting memories of Aucho’s journey with The Cranes as he begins a new chapter after bidding farewell to international football.
