AFCON 2027 Qualifier:
Uganda vs. Libya, 7:00 p.m
The atmosphere in Uganda’s Oil City, Hoima, has been electric since last week as the Bunyoro region readies to host its first international football match this evening.
In addition to locals from Hoima and surrounding districts, fans have braved the journey from all corners of Uganda to witness the Cranes’ first-ever game at the newly built stadium as they take on Libya under the floodlights.
Following a positive result away from home, a draw against Tunisia last week in the Group H opener of the ongoing AFCON 2027 Qualifiers, fans had no option but to flood Hoima City.
It is not only the fans feeling at home. Veteran goalkeeper and Cranes captain Denis Onyango welcomed the opportunity to play at Hoima City Stadium for the first time, describing the venue as impressive and expressing the team’s determination to make it a strong home ground.
“First of all, we want to thank everyone who made it possible for us to be here, and, of course, for the beautiful stadium, because it’s my first time here as well. It’s amazing, and we can’t wait for the game tomorrow,” Onyango noted.
The experienced shot-stopper acknowledged the travel challenges but insisted that the team must remain focused on the task ahead and get the job done.
“Of course, as the coach said, there were a few hiccups here and there in terms of our travel, but the opposition faced the same challenge. So it can never be an excuse. We just need to go out and play because, at the end of the day, that’s what we have to do,” he added.
Onyango said the players are determined to deliver a positive result in Uganda’s first international fixture at the Hoima venue.
“First game in Hoima for the national team, but we want to make it a fortress and try to get the results everyone expects from us.”
The Uganda Cranes will look to make the most of their home advantage as they continue building toward future competitive assignments.
