Opening the Gates of Victory: FUFA’s Triumph with Mandela National Stadium

In a momentous turn of events, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has bestowed upon FUFA the green light to stage International Matches at the newly revamped Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

This landmark decision arrives just in time as the Uganda Cranes gear up to welcome Botswana and Algeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers next month.

FUFA joyously proclaimed this milestone through their official channels, affirming that the forthcoming matches will indeed take place at Namboole.

“CAF has graciously granted FUFA the privilege to host International Matches at Mandela National Stadium (Namboole). Consequently, Uganda Cranes will proudly host the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier matches against Botswana and Algeria in June at Namboole,” announced FUFA in a statement.

Amidst the jubilation, concerns had loomed among football enthusiasts regarding the pace of renovations at Namboole. The facility had been undergoing refurbishments for the past four years, forcing the Uganda Cranes to seek alternative venues for their home games.

The last time the Uganda Cranes graced the hallowed turf of Mandela National Stadium was in 2019, clinching a decisive 2-0 victory over Malawi, courtesy of goals from Fahad Bayo and Emmanuel Okwi.

FUFA’s meticulous efforts to showcase Namboole’s readiness culminated in a Uganda Premier League doubleheader staged on 1st May, serving as test events to secure CAF’s coveted approval.

Now, with the gates of Mandela National Stadium flung wide open, Uganda Cranes eagerly anticipate the thrilling encounters against Botswana on 7th June and Algeria on 10th June, poised for back-to-back home triumphs.