Uganda Cranes Gear Up for Historic Home Qualifier in Hoima After Hard-Fought Tunisia Draw

The Uganda Cranes are set to make history next week as they prepare for their first-ever competitive match at the new Hoima City Stadium. Fresh off a resilient 1-1 draw against Tunisia in their AFCON 2027 qualifier opener, the team returns home this afternoon, rests at Kampala’s Marriott Hotel tonight, and flies to Hoima tomorrow for final training ahead of the September 29 clash with Libya.

Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm local time in what will be the Cranes’ first qualifier outside Kampala. The fixture marks a significant milestone for both the national team and Uganda’s football infrastructure as the country gears up to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

Building Momentum After Tunis

On September 24 in Radès, Uganda came from behind to earn a valuable point against one of the group’s strongest sides. Tunisia took an early lead through Alaa Arous in the 12th minute, but Rogers Mato equalised in the 68th minute from a Nathan Asiimwe assist. The result leaves the Cranes with one point from their opening Group H match, the same as Libya (who drew 2-2 with Botswana) and Tunisia.

Although Uganda are already guaranteed a place at AFCON PAMOJA 2027 as co-hosts, the qualifiers remain important for maintaining competitive sharpness and determining the additional qualifier from the group.

Full Government Backing and Strong Logistics

The squad is receiving full government support, including five-star accommodation and enhanced bonuses. After resting in Kampala, the team will head to Hoima for focused training sessions in preparation for the home fixture. Libya have already arrived in Uganda ahead of the match.

Hoima City Stadium, which has achieved near-full CAF compliance, will host its first international competitive game. The modern venue is a key part of Uganda’s preparations for the 2027 finals and represents a major step in decentralising top-level football beyond the capital.

Tickets and Fan Experience

Tickets are available online exclusively via momoticketing.com, with prices as follows:

• Ordinary Lower – UGX 20,000
• Ordinary Upper – UGX 30,000
• VIP – UGX 150,000

Approximately 18,000 tickets are on sale. Skybox hospitality packages are also available for a premium experience (Premium Skybox UGX 5 million and Executive Skybox UGX 3 million, each for 12 guests, including food, drinks, and reserved parking).

Fans are strongly encouraged to turn out in force to create a vibrant atmosphere and give the Cranes the home advantage they need. Beyond the match, supporters are invited to explore Hoima and the wider Bunyoro region’s attractions, turning the occasion into a broader celebration of Ugandan football and tourism.

This home qualifier offers the perfect opportunity for the Cranes to build early momentum in Group H and for Ugandan fans to experience top-level international football at a brand-new venue. Secure your tickets early and be part of history at Hoima City Stadium on September 29.