CHAN Qualifiers 2024: Uganda and Burundi Set to Clash at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo

*By John Kusolo*

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has authorized the Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo to host African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 qualifier matches for both Uganda and Burundi.

These encounters will be part of the CECAFA region’s qualification rounds for the upcoming CHAN tournament.

The first leg will take place on 26th December 2024, with Burundi hosting Uganda, while the second leg is scheduled for 29th December 2024, where Uganda will play as hosts at the same venue. Both matches are set to kick off at 6:00 PM.

Limited Attendance

To ensure efficient crowd management and safety, CAF has restricted the number of spectators for each match to 7,000. This decision underscores the need for proper control at the historic Hamz Stadium, which recently reopened after extensive renovations.

As co-hosts of CHAN 2024 alongside Tanzania and Kenya, Uganda has already secured its place in the tournament. The upcoming matches will, therefore, serve as valuable preparation for the team as they aim to refine their squad and strategies ahead of the finals.

For Burundi, these matches represent a critical opportunity. The team is vying for the additional slot allocated to the CECAFA region in the tournament, which will be fiercely contested through these qualifiers. Burundi will need to deliver a strong performance in both legs to secure their ticket to the finals.

The CHAN 2024 Finals Tournament will take place from 1st to 21st February 2025 in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. This biennial championship, exclusive to players competing in their home countries’ domestic leagues, offers a unique platform to showcase local talent on an international stage.

Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, holds historical significance in Uganda’s football journey. Its selection as the venue for these qualifiers underscores Uganda’s readiness to host high-profile matches ahead of the CHAN tournament. The revamped stadium boasts improved facilities, making it a suitable stage for international matches.

Key Highlights

Dates: 26th December (1st leg) and 29th December (2nd leg).

Venue: Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

Kickoff Time: 6:00 PM for both matches.

Fan Attendance: Limited to 7,000 spectators per match.

Objective: Uganda prepares for the CHAN Finals; Burundi seeks qualification.

These qualifiers promise thrilling action as Uganda and Burundi lock horns in what could be pivotal matches for their respective CHAN 2024 ambitions. While Uganda seeks to fine-tune its squad for the tournament, Burundi will aim to secure the coveted CECAFA qualification slot. Football enthusiasts can expect a highly competitive two-legged affair at the iconic Hamz Stadium.

The countdown to CHAN 2024 is well underway, and the matches in Nakivubo are set to add excitement to the region's football calendar.