The morning sun cast long shadows over Nakivubo, where the iconic Hamz Stadium stood ready for yet another historic chapter in African football. Vendors outside the gates bustled to set up stalls, their chatter blending with the faint echo of players warming up inside. Excitement buzzed in the air as fans, albeit limited in number, eagerly awaited the drama to unfold. The stadium, though hosting only 7,000 spectators per game as per CAF’s directive, seemed destined to come alive with the thunderous roars of football passion.
In a surprising turn, Nakivubo has been granted the honor of hosting CHAN 2024 Qualifier matches for both Uganda and Burundi. For Uganda, already seated at the table of co-hosts alongside Tanzania and Kenya, these games are less about qualification and more about polishing their skills. The Cranes will use this opportunity to fine-tune their squad for the February 2025 finals. Yet, for Burundi and other CECAFA hopefuls, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they vie for the single remaining slot allocated to the region.
This regional showdown has become the talk of the town, especially given the unique limitations imposed by CAF. The 7,000-strong crowd restriction is both a blessing and a curse—a chance to ensure safety and order, yet a bittersweet pill for the thousands who will miss out. Still, Hamz Stadium’s atmosphere promises to be electric, with every seat occupied by die-hard fans who will stop at nothing to cheer their teams to victory. For Burundi, it’s a fight to make history; for Uganda, it’s a chance to show the world they mean business come February.
The final whistle will not just signal the end of a match but also the culmination of dreams for some and the beginning of new hope for others. As the CHAN 2024 Finals loom on the horizon, set to take place across Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya, the Nakivubo games are more than just qualifiers—they are a prelude to the symphony of African football excellence. Indeed, the stage is set, and as the saying goes, “the ball is in their court.” Let the games begin!
