Uganda’s senior men’s national team, the Cranes, will be aiming to announce their return to the continental stage when they face Tunisia on Tuesday night in a crucial Group C clash at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The match will be played at the Stade Annexe Olympique, Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, with kick-off set for 9:00pm local time. It marks Uganda’s first AFCON appearance since 2019 and their eighth overall, as they take on a Tunisian side making a record-extending 22nd appearance.
For Uganda, the fixture represents more than just a group opener. It is a statement opportunity against one of Africa’s most experienced football nations. Tunisia and Uganda have met several times in AFCON history, with the North Africans historically holding the upper hand, including a 3–1 win in 1978 and a heavy 6–0 victory in 2000. However, the Cranes arrive in Rabat determined to write a new chapter.
Head coach Paul Put says the team is embracing both the occasion and the challenge, confident in the progress made during preparations.
“We are very proud to be at this tournament,” Put said. “The infrastructure and organization by CAF have been exceptional. We are not only playing to be watched by Africa, but by the whole world. The team is preparing well and focused on the game. I know my players better now, and they are gradually gelling into a strong side that will compete.”
Uganda’s confidence is echoed by midfielder Khalid Aucho, one of the team’s most experienced players, who believes the Cranes are ready to defy expectations.
“The team is in good shape and everyone is ready to compete,” Aucho said. “Many people have not given us a chance, but we are focused on making our nation and the people back home proud.”
The Cranes face a Tunisia side under the guidance of Samy Trabelsi, who has spoken highly of the tournament conditions in Morocco and the competitiveness of African football. Tunisia will lean on experienced players such as midfielder Elyes Skhiri, who has cautioned against underestimating Uganda.
“Uganda are no pushovers and will be out to play for a win,” Skhiri admitted, underlining the respect the East Africans have earned heading into the contest.
Group C is one of the tournament’s toughest, also featuring Nigeria and regional rivals Tanzania, making Tuesday’s encounter particularly important for Uganda’s ambitions of progressing beyond the group stage.
