The Uganda Cranes will be seeking to extend their winning run at Hoima City Stadium when they host Botswana on Saturday, 14th November 2026, in the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 Pamoja Qualifiers.
Uganda head into the third Group H fixture topping the group 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.
Head coach Paul Put has maintained that the team is approaching the encounter with the ambition of collecting maximum points, emphasising the importance of every qualification match as Uganda works towards securing a place at the 2027 finals.
‘Every qualification game is important. It is also preparation for AFCON 2027, so we take these games seriously and prepare to win,’ Put said during Friday’s pre-match press conference in Hoima.
The coach acknowledged that Botswana will present a difficult challenge, particularly given the changes within their squad since the two sides last met. He, however, expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparations and commitment.
Put also revealed that the availability of some players remains uncertain due to pending administrative clearance, with Abdoulaye Sissako, David Udoh Akpan and Daniel Dongmo unlikely to feature on Saturday.
Goalkeeper Denis Onyango expects a competitive encounter against a Botswana side that has demonstrated its attacking potential in the opening rounds.
‘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 receive recognition 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.
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 but is still being carefully managed following a minor injury. His fitness continues to be monitored by the technical team.
Meanwhile, Bockhorn is available for selection after completing the process to represent Uganda. Put welcomed his experience and maturity, noting that his motivation during training had been encouraging.
The coach said the starting line-up would be determined by players’ match fitness, recent performances and training levels, while emphasising that those coming off the bench would also have an important role to play.
Put has called on supporters to turn up in large numbers and create a strong atmosphere at Hoima City Stadium, appreciating the backing the team received during the previous home fixture against Libya.
‘We need all the support of the supporters and the media. Tomorrow it has to be a full house. We want to respect you and give everyone a good feeling,’ he said.
Kick-off is at 7:00 PM.
