In a move necessitated by the unavailability of CAF-approved stadiums in Uganda, the local football governing body, FUFA, has decided to host the national women’s football team, the Crested Cranes, in Kigali for their Olympic qualifier against Rwanda.
Ahmed Hussein Marsha, the communications director of FUFA, confirmed the decision on Wednesday, stating that the Crested Cranes will face Rwanda’s She Amavubi on July 12 at the Kigali Pele Stadium.
With Mandela National Stadium in Namboole and St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende currently undergoing renovation, the choice to play in Kigali aligns with the current situation in Uganda, where suitable stadiums are unavailable.
Marsha further revealed that FUFA’s request to CAF for hosting the first leg of the 2024 Women’s Olympic qualifier in Kigali had been granted. The Federation of Rwanda Football Association (FERWAFA) has also confirmed the availability of the Kigali Pele Stadium.
The winner of the match between the Uganda Crested Cranes and Rwanda will advance to the next round of qualifiers, where they will face Cameroon on the road to the 2024 Olympic Games, set to be held in Paris, France.
Prior to the qualifier, the She Cranes have a friendly match scheduled against Tanzania on Friday, July 7 at Lugogo. It will serve as a warm-up for the upcoming important Olympic qualifier.
Fans and supporters eagerly anticipate the Crested Cranes’ performance as they strive for victory and progress in their quest for Olympic qualification.