Last evening, Uganda Cranes attained a much-needed win against Botswana in the World Cup Qualifiers, thanks to Mohammed Shaban’s goal in the 75th minute. Several players, including Ronald Ssekiganda, put up a very good display, but the player many are tipping to have been man of the match is debutant Elio Capradossi.

Veteran sports journalist Mark Ssali said, “Elio Capradossi: Not since Ibrahim Sekagya has a Ugandan defender looked this assured in possession, sharp in anticipation, and quick in decision. A great find, a class act.”

Indeed, we can all agree that the defender led the Cranes’ backline with command as he was strong, athletic, and calm in possession.

Elio Capradossi was born on March 11, 1996, in Kampala, Uganda, to an Italian father, Corrado Capradossi, and a mother from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Before deciding to represent Uganda a few months ago, he was eligible to play for three countries: Italy, Uganda, and DR Congo.

Standing at 1.85m tall, Capradossi, a product of the AS Roma academy, is currently employed by Serie C side Lecco, a club he joined in February this year.

The defender started his football career in 2010 in the Roma academy and managed to go through the ranks until he made his senior team debut in 2015. However, he managed only two appearances before he was loaned out to Italian sides Bari first, then Spezia.