It was a memorable introduction to international football for Vula, who was making his first appearance in Uganda colours after being identified through the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) scouting programme.
Vula celebrating his first goal for cranes (courtesy Image )
Vula’s goal came at a significant moment for both the player and the national team. With the first half approaching its conclusion, Uganda needed a breakthrough, and the forward delivered with a finish that ultimately proved decisive.
The goal also made Vula one of the latest players to benefit from FUFA’s efforts to widen the Cranes’ talent pool through its scouting network.
Vula is among 20 players identified through the programme, which is aimed at strengthening the national team in both the short and long term. The initiative forms part of FUFA’s broader approach, which includes scouting heritage players, monitoring domestic club competitions and developing talent through structured academies.
Born to Congolese parents, Vula has a Ugandan connection through his paternal grandmother, who is an Alur from Pakwach in Uganda’s West Nile region. According to the information provided, the forward is eligible to represent Uganda under the relevant FIFA statutes and national laws.
That heritage connection opened the door for Vula to be considered for the Cranes, while his performances at club level have helped strengthen his case.
The forward has been building his reputation through his performances in France and Belgium, where he has continued his development before earning the opportunity to represent Uganda at senior international level.
His first appearance for the Cranes came at Hoima City Stadium, adding another layer to an important night for Ugandan football. The match was Uganda’s first international fixture at the newly constructed stadium, and Vula ensured the occasion would also be remembered as the night he opened his international account.
Image ( courtesy ) :The Uganda Cranes first eleven against Libya
After scoring the opener, Vula continued to play his part before being substituted later in the match, with Kelvin Owusu Boateng coming on as his replacement , by then the damage had been done. Uganda held on to the advantage created by Vula’s 45+2nd-minute strike to claim maximum points against Libya.
For Vula, it was a dream start to his international career: a debut, a goal and a victory in front of the home supporters , for FUFA, his arrival represents another example of the federation’s search for eligible players with Ugandan heritage playing their football outside the country.
The scouting programme is designed to identify such players while also complementing the talent emerging from Uganda’s domestic competitions and academies.
Vula’s debut therefore goes beyond the goal itself. His journey reflects the growing role of heritage scouting in expanding the options available to the Uganda Cranes, while his immediate contribution gives the national team another attacking option as the AFCON 2027 qualification campaign continues.
With his first Uganda appearance now complete and his name already on the scoresheet, Vula has made a strong introduction to Cranes football.
