Fès, Morocco
The Uganda national football team, known as the Cranes, has gone on strike just days before their opening 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tunisia. Players refused to participate in a scheduled training session in Morocco on Saturday, citing a dispute over unpaid allowances and a lack of clarity regarding their financial entitlements.
The boycott represents a significant setback for the team’s preparations as they face a challenging Group C, which also includes three-time African champions Nigeria and regional rivals Tanzania. Reports from the training camp suggest that the squad is seeking immediate payment and formal documentation of the bonuses and daily allowances they are owed during their stay in Morocco. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has yet to issue an official statement regarding the resolution of the crisis.
Impact on the Opening Match
The disruption comes at a critical time for the Cranes, who are scheduled to face the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia in Fès on Tuesday.
- Training Disruption: The loss of a key tactical session in Morocco has raised serious questions about the team’s physical and mental readiness.
- Morale Issues: Internal friction over finances often hampers performance in major international tournaments.
- Group Standings: With only two teams likely to qualify from a group containing a powerhouse like Nigeria, every point in the opening matches is vital for Uganda’s hopes of reaching the tournament.
The strike has gained significant traction on social media, putting pressure on Ugandan sports authorities to resolve the matter before the team travels for Tuesday’s high-stakes encounter.
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