Uganda Sand Cranes Intensify Preparations for Burundi Decider

By Kayiira Jackson 

The Uganda Sand Cranes have intensified preparations for the return leg of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Beach Soccer Qualifiers against Burundi, with the team holding a recovery training session at Bunjako Beach on Wednesday morning.

The session followed a convincing 5–2 victory over STAHIZA in a practice match played on Tuesday, providing the technical team with an opportunity to assess the players, sharpen tactics and strengthen team chemistry ahead of Sunday’s decisive encounter.

Uganda will host Burundi on October 18 at Bunjako Beach in Buwama, Mpigi District, seeking to secure qualification for the continental showpiece.

The Sand Cranes have also strengthened their squad with the addition of Baker Lukooya and Brian Nkuubi as preparations enter a crucial stage.

The duo joins a team determined to capitalise on home advantage and book a place at the 2026 AFCON Beach Soccer tournament.

The return leg is finely poised following an entertaining 4–4 draw in the first leg, leaving both sides with everything to play for.

With qualification at stake, Uganda will be looking to build on their encouraging performance against STAHIZA and translate their preparations into a decisive result against the Burundians.

The encounter at Bunjako Beach is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026.