The 33-year-old confirmed his decision in a statement on his social media pages, having earned 77 caps and represented Uganda at three Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments.
Aucho, who helped end Uganda’s 38-year wait for AFCON qualification, described wearing the national jersey and captaining the team as the greatest privilege of his life.
The burly midfielder reflected on his journey with the Cranes and expressed gratitude to the coaches, teammates, football administrators and fans who supported him throughout his international career.
Aucho ends 13-year journey
“Today, I officially announce my retirement from international football after an unforgettable 13-year journey representing my country, the Uganda Cranes,” read part of the statement from Aucho.
“From my international debut on November 30th, 2013, to earning 77 caps and having the ultimate honour of captaining our national team, wearing the black, yellow, and red jersey has been the greatest privilege of my life.
“It is now time for a new generation of heroes to step forward, carry the flag and write their own history. I look forward to supporting them as one of Uganda’s biggest fans.”
Aucho concluded: “While my journey on the pitch with the national team comes to an end, my commitment to Ugandan football remains unchanged. It is now time for a new generation of heroes to step forward, carry the flag, and write their own history.”
Aucho, who currently plays for Ethiopian Premier League club Sidama Coffee, has played football in various clubs, such as Jinja Municipal Council F.C. from 2009 to 2010, Water F.C from Uganda from 2010 to 2012, Simba FC from Uganda, Tusker from Kenya, Gor Mahia from Kenya, and Baroka from the South African Premier Soccer League.
In July 2016, Aucho went on trial at Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen. The move to Aberdeen collapsed, however, after a transfer fee snag between the clubs.
After unsuccessful trials in Scotland, Aucho was signed by Baroka F.C. from South Africa at a fee reported to be 200,000 Rands (approximately KSh1.6million).
He was a part of the Uganda national side that qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 38 years.
Aucho made his debut for Uganda against Rwanda in a 1-0 victory at the 2013 CECAFA Cup. He scored his first international goal in a match against Sudan to give his side a 1-0 victory in the group stage of the same competition.
In June 2016, Aucho scored on an overhead kick from his own penalty box in a 2-1 away win over Botswana in a qualifying game for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
Aucho was called up by head coach Milutin Sredojevic to the Uganda squad for the 2017 AFCON, but missed the first game against Ghana because of suspension.
