- Event: AFCON 2026 Beach Soccer Qualifiers
- Return Leg: Uganda Vs Burundi (First leg ended 4-all)
- Date: Sunday, 18th October 2026
- Venue: Bunjako beach – Buwama, Mpigi
The Uganda national beach soccer team (Sand Cranes) will host their counterparts from Burundi at the Bunjako beach in Buwama, Mpigi district during the return leg of the AFCON 2026 Beach Soccer qualifiers this Sunday, 18th October.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday, 13th October 2026, a swift change from the earlier planned Bambo Beach in Kasanje, Wakiso district.
This is advantage to the Sand Cranes who have been training on the facility for now over a fortnight prior to the first leg held at the Olympe Africa Grounds in Nyabugete.
The first leg ended 4 goals apiece with Uganda overturning a 3-0 deficit at some stage to level matters.
Skipper Sharif Opuli and Jonah Mugisha were on target for Uganda Sand Cranes who are coached by the duo of two former internationals Geofrey Akabwai and Ricky Byaruhanga.
“We gave a very spirited display during the away game in Bujumbura. I salute the players and the fighting mentality and spirit. We are back to correct the errors prior to the return leg as we eye the AFCON beach soccer slot” head coach Akabwai remarked.
The soft sand at Bunjako beach is expected to precipitate the smooth flow of the game with the ambiance at this facility owned by Mr Robert Lwanga Mugerwa anticipated to supplement the vibe on the evening.
“We call upon the fans to come in big numbers for this historic do-or-die contest for Uganda Sand Cranes at Bunjako beach. Fans should expect the best reception” Juma Adam Kato, a member of local organizing committee for the return leg calls.
The winner on aggregate will book a slot for the AFCON beach soccer championship due in Morocco later this year.
