Hoima, Uganda | URN | The Uganda Cranes are set to take on Libya in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixture at Hoima City Stadium, marking a significant moment for football in the region. Despite tight security, excitement is building among football fans and residents of the Bunyoro sub-region. The match is a milestone in Uganda's preparations to co-host the 2027 AFCON tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
Both teams arrived at Kabalega International Airport in Hoima District on Sunday ahead of the highly anticipated encounter. Although Uganda has already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as one of the host nations, the Cranes are participating in the qualifiers to maintain competitive readiness. For football enthusiasts in Bunyoro, the fixture represents more than a qualifying match, it's a chance to watch the national team compete on home soil.
Residents of Hoima City are thrilled about the match, with Geofrey Tumwesige describing it as a landmark moment in the region's football history. Joseph Kirumira is excited to see the first international match played at Hoima City Stadium, while Michael Akugizibwe has called on residents to turn up in large numbers and support the Uganda Cranes. Rogers Ahumuza applauded the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) for selecting Hoima City Stadium as the venue.
The match is also significant as it's the first competitive international fixture involving the Uganda Cranes to be played outside the Kampala metropolitan area, apart from CECAFA competitions. Hoima City Stadium was constructed by SUMMA as part of Uganda's preparations to host AFCON 2027. The 20,000-seater multi-purpose stadium is located on 34 acres of land in Kyarwiru Cell, Hoima East Division.
The stadium was constructed at a cost of 129 million US dollars, fully financed through Uganda's Petroleum Fund, supported by revenues from the country's oil and gas resources. Designed to meet international football standards set by FIFA and CAF, the facility features VVIP sections, an indoor arena, a swimming pool, modern changing rooms with gyms, and parking space for nearly 1,000 vehicles.
Security has been increased, with anti-riot police and Uganda People's Defence Forces personnel deployed to secure the stadium and main access routes. Albertine Region Police spokesperson Julius Hakiza said the deployment aims to protect both teams, fans, and members of the public. Hakiza has appealed to the public to adhere to security guidelines to ensure the success of the football match.
The Uganda-Libya encounter offers an early test of Hoima City Stadium's ability to host international football, giving football fans in Bunyoro a chance to experience the national team on their doorstep. The match marks a significant step in the decentralisation of national-team football in Uganda, showcasing the country's readiness to host major sporting events.
Key points
- The match is a milestone in Uganda's preparations to co-host the 2027 AFCON tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
- Hoima City Stadium was constructed at a cost of 129 million US dollars, fully financed through Uganda's Petroleum Fund.
- The match is the first competitive international fixture involving the Uganda Cranes to be played outside the Kampala metropolitan area.
