Video: Why FUFA chose to host Algeria in Cameroon
FUFA has confirmed Uganda Cranes will host the next 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Algeria slated for June 12th in Cameroon, as there still needs to be a CAF-approved stadium in the country.
Moses Magogo, the FUFA boss, confirmed the saddening news asserting that the national stadium, Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, will not be fit enough to host the game.
"We had been given the assurance by the Hon. Minister of Sports that Mandela National Stadium would be ready, but this is not the case," Magogo said.
The Budiope East Legislator has defended the decision to have the match in Cameroon, calling it the 'most suitable option'.
"Considering the factors, the connections to Cameroon are good, and the Visa requirements are okay," Magogo revealed.
No federation(s) would wish to host away from home given the environment, costs, and disadvantages, but we have no choice because there is no significant progress at Namboole. pic.twitter.com/o9MBNogNgU
— Moses Hassim Magogo (@MosesMagogo) April 25, 2023
"But most importantly, Cameroon has offered to give us an international friendly because, in that ten-day break, Cameroon won't have an opponent in their group," Magogo added.
Magogo further asked the government to cancel the contract of the current contractors undertaking the renovation of the Mandela Stadium.
"I call upon the relevant government authorities to urgently cancel the contracts of the contractors and supervisors and immediately procure experienced service providers in stadium construction, even if it means being obtained from outside Uganda."
Why Cameroon? The visa requirements and flight connections are good besides offering to play a test game before our match against Algeria. pic.twitter.com/Ag1eNXsBIO
— Moses Hassim Magogo (@MosesMagogo) April 25, 2023
"The country is likely to have a delayed project, substandard work and without value for money," he added in disappointment.
It should be remembered that Uganda hosted their last qualification away match against Tanzania in Egypt, which triggered anger among the masses. Uganda went on to lose 1-0.
Uganda lies third in Group F with four points, the exact tally as runners-up Tanzania. Algeria, on 12 points, has already progressed, while Niger occupies rock-bottom with two points.
Today, Tuesday 25th April 2023 being the deadline set by CAF for all federations to submit names of venues to be used for the qualifiers due in June, the FUFA Executive has taken a decision to host the Uganda Cranes next AFCON 2023 home fixture against Algeria in Cameroon. pic.twitter.com/xLreraRpVe
— Moses Hassim Magogo (@MosesMagogo) April 25, 2023