Uganda Cranes winger Rogers Kassim Mato has taken a significant leap in his career after completing a move to Scottish Premiership side Heart of Midlothian.
The dynamic forward joins the Edinburgh-based club from North Macedonian outfit FK Vardar on an initial loan deal that runs until the end of the season.
The agreement includes an obligation to buy, meaning Mato will officially sign a permanent three-year contract with the Jambos at the conclusion of the campaign in June.
Confirming the move, Hearts announced via their official channels:
“Heart of Midlothian is delighted to confirm the signing of Rogers Mato in this transfer window. The Ugandan forward joins the Jambos on an initial loan deal from North Macedonian side FK Vardar until the end of the season, subject to international clearance and Scottish FA approval. At the end of the season, upon the expiration of his contract with Vardar, Rogers’ permanent three-year contract with Hearts will begin.”
Mato arrives in Scotland riding high on an impressive run of form. He has been prolific for FK Vardar this season, registering 15 goals in 17 appearances across all competitions. In the league, the winger netted 12 times to finish as joint-top scorer alongside Struga’s Bassirou Compaoré.
The move crowns a steady rise for the 22-year-old, whose journey began at Proline Junior Team before progressing to Proline FC and later KCCA FC in the Uganda Premier League. His performances earned him a move to Turkey with Şanlıurfaspor, followed by a stint at AP Brera in 2024, and eventually a switch to FK Vardar where his stock rose even higher.
On the international stage, Mato has established himself as a regular for the Uganda Cranes since making his senior debut in 2022. He has so far earned 41 caps, contributing 8 goals for the national team.
With his transfer to Hearts, Mato becomes the fourth Ugandan to feature for the Scottish club, following in the footsteps of David Obua (2008–2012), Toby Sibbick (January–May 2020) and Uche Ikpeazu (2018–2020).
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