Uganda Cranes began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 qualification campaign with a 1–1 draw against Tunisia in Tunis on Thursday night, September 24, 2026. The result gave Uganda a point away from home after the team recovered from an early deficit.
Tunisia took the lead in the 12th minute when Alaa Arous converted an opportunity created by Khalil Ayari. The early goal forced Uganda to spend much of the opening half trying to contain the hosts and find a way back into the contest. Uganda went into the interval trailing 1–0.
The Cranes changed their approach after the break and introduced James Bogere for Travis Mutyaba in the 63rd minute. The adjustment was followed by Uganda’s equaliser five minutes later. Rogers Mato scored in the 68th minute after Nathan Asiimwe created the opening. The goal restored parity and gave Uganda renewed confidence.
Tunisia responded with several substitutions as the hosts attempted to regain their advantage. Uganda also made changes, bringing on Steven Mukwala for Mato and Allan Oyirwoth for Allan Okello in the 82nd minute. Defender Hillary Mukundane was introduced in the 90th minute as Uganda sought to protect the point.
The closing stages remained tense, but Uganda maintained its defensive organisation. Both teams received late yellow cards, but neither side found a winning goal. The final score was 1–1.
The result is notable because Uganda is already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON finals as one of the three co-hosts, together with Kenya and Tanzania. Uganda is nevertheless participating in the qualifying competition because the group will determine an additional qualifier from Group H.
The Cranes’ next Group H fixture is against Libya at Hoima City Stadium on Tuesday, September 29, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00pm East Africa Time. Libya began its campaign with a 2–2 draw against Botswana. Tunisia will face Botswana in its next assignment.
For Uganda, the immediate focus is now the home match against Libya. The team will look to build on the away point while continuing preparations for the 2027 finals, which are scheduled to be held in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania from June 19 to July 17, 2027.
The draw also provides a useful competitive test for the Cranes against one of the more experienced teams in the group. Uganda’s comeback demonstrated that the side could respond after conceding first, while the late defensive effort helped secure the point.
With the next match taking place in Hoima, attention will now turn to preparations, team selection and the expected home support. The Cranes will hope to turn the momentum from Tunis into another positive result on home soil.