Uganda Cranes launched their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 qualification campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Tunisia on Thursday night at Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in Radès.
The Cranes came from behind after Tunisia had taken an early lead through Alaa Arous in the 12th minute.
Rogers Mato restored parity in the 68th minute to reward Uganda’s determined performance away from home.
Although Uganda are already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON finals as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Tanzania, the Cranes are competing in the qualifiers as CAF determines the additional qualifier from Group H.
Tunisia, playing their first qualifier under head coach Mouine Chaâbani, made the brighter start and broke the deadlock early.
Arous put the Carthage Eagles ahead after being set up by Khalil Ayari in front of their home supporters.
The goal forced Uganda to settle into the contest with Paul Put’s charges remaining organised.
The Cranes went into the interval trailing 1-0.
Tunisia made a double change at the start of the second half, bringing on Sayfallah Ltaief and Sadok Kedida.
Uganda responded in the 63rd minute as James Bogere replaced Travis Mutyaba.
The change paid dividends five minutes later when Mato struck to bring the Cranes level at 1-1.
Nathan Asiimwe, deployed at right-back, provided the assist with an attacking run.
The equaliser changed the complexion of the contest with Uganda gaining renewed confidence.
Tunisia responded with further substitutions, introducing Hamza Rafia and Elias Achouri.
Uganda managed their shape with Steven Mukwala replacing Mato and Allan Oyirwoth coming on for Allan Okello.
A late tactical switch saw Hillary Mukundane replace Alhassan Baba to strengthen the defence.
The argument doing the rounds in Kampala is whether Put’s pragmatic approach away to a North African giant signals a new maturity or simply reflects the luxury of already being qualified.
Match facts
- Result: Tunisia 1-1 Uganda Cranes
- Venue: Hammadi Agrebi Stadium, Radès
- Date: Thursday, 24 September 2026
- Competition: TotalEnergies AFCON PAMOJA 2027 Qualifiers, Group H
- Tunisia scorer: Alaa Arous (12’)
- Uganda scorer: Rogers Mato (68’)
- Assist: Nathan Asiimwe
- Uganda coach: Paul Put
- Tunisia coach: Mouine Chaâbani
Watch the Highlights
Source: FUFA
