The Uganda Cranes are on the brink of securing a significant financial reward as they prepare to face South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier this Friday. If they secure a victory, the team is guaranteed a minimum prize of $500,000 (around UGX 1.85 billion), even if they finish last in their AFCON group.
This potential payout reflects the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) revised prize money structure, which outlines substantial rewards for teams participating in the tournament. Uganda’s progress into the AFCON would mark a return to the prestigious competition since their last appearance under coach Sebastien Desabre. Now, with Paul Put at the helm, the Cranes have a renewed opportunity to compete on the continental stage, and securing at least one point in this fixture could be pivotal for their qualification hopes.
Prize Money Breakdown for AFCON 2023
CAF’s prize money structure, as recently decided, offers various financial incentives depending on a team’s progress in the tournament:
Winner: $7 million
Runner-up: $4 million
Semi-finalists: $2.5 million each
Quarter-finalists: $1.5 million each
Round of 16: $1 million each
3rd in Group: $800,000 each
4th in Group: $500,000 each
If Uganda advances and achieves higher ranks in the tournament, their financial rewards would increase substantially. The prize money underscores the stakes for each match as the Cranes look to progress as far as possible, aiming for the top prizes awarded to finalists and champions.
Uganda’s Road to AFCON
The Cranes’ qualification would signal a comeback to AFCON, building on the legacy of their previous participation. With a mix of veteran and emerging talent, coach Paul Put’s squad is determined to capitalize on this opportunity, starting with the game against South Africa. Their journey to AFCON also brings a sense of pride to fans and the nation, representing a collective achievement beyond the financial gains.
As Uganda prepares for Friday’s showdown, fans eagerly await the outcome, knowing that a win not only secures a return to AFCON but also a guaranteed financial boost. The journey to the AFCON 2023 promises to be exciting, and if they can clinch a result in their favor, Uganda will have reason to celebrate both on and off the field.
