The Uganda Cranes will be seeking to extend their winning run at Hoima City Stadium when they host Botswana on Saturday in the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 Pamoja Qualifiers.
Uganda head into the third Group H fixture topping the table with four points from their opening two matches, having drawn 1-1 away to Tunisia before securing a 1-0 victory against Libya in Hoima.
Seasoned goalkeeper Denis Onyango expects a competitive encounter against a Botswana side that has demonstrated its attacking potential in its last two games.
“They are a very good team, a team that scores goals. They have scored three and conceded three in two games. We just need to be cautious and try to get a clean sheet. The chances will come, and if we take them, we have a very good chance to win,” Onyango noted.
Uganda will also be playing for a special occasion, as former captain Khalid Aucho is set to be honoured following his retirement from international football after 13 years of service, 77 appearances, and three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Onyango described Aucho as a dedicated professional who has given a lot to the national team and deserves an honourable farewell.
“He has given so much for this nation. A win in Hoima will give him a good send-off. He has been a top professional on and off the field,” he said.
Head coach Paul Put confirmed that Aucho will wear the captain’s armband should he feature against Botswana, in recognition of his leadership and contribution to the Uganda Cranes.
The coach further revealed that Aucho has been training with the team, though he is still being carefully managed following a minor injury. His fitness continues to be monitored by the technical team.
