The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the African Nations Championship has issued a stern directive ahead of Uganda’s crunch quarterfinal tie against Senegal this Saturday at Namboole National Stadium, warning that fans dressed in jerseys or T-shirts carrying abusive or provocative messages will be turned away at the gates.
Addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre on Wednesday, LOC member Ms. Diana Nabuuso explained that the ban is intended to protect Uganda’s image during the continental tournament and to guarantee discipline among supporters.
She underlined that no fan will be allowed entry if their attire undermines the spirit of peace and order expected at such a high-profile fixture.
Uganda’s clash with Senegal, scheduled for a 5 p.m. kickoff, comes on the back of the Cranes’ dramatic 3-3 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Monday, a result that not only secured top spot in Group C with seven points but also marked a historic first-ever qualification for the quarterfinals.
The heroic comeback has been widely celebrated as a reflection of the team’s fighting spirit and the unwavering support of Ugandans who have packed Namboole in record numbers.
Alongside the dress code restrictions, the LOC has also reminded fans that all tickets for the quarterfinal will be sold exclusively online, in line with CAF’s directive to curb counterfeiting.
LOC Communications Chairperson Mr. Dennis Mugimba revealed that each supporter will only be able to buy a maximum of three tickets, adding that there will be no physical tickets available in circulation.
He also urged fans to strictly adhere to the seating arrangements printed on their electronic tickets.
However, by Wednesday afternoon, the official ticketing website continued to display August 21 as the opening date for sales, despite CAF’s announcement earlier in the day that tickets were meant to be available immediately.
The delay left some fans uncertain, even as excitement builds for what is already being described as one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited encounters.
As Uganda seeks to extend its fairytale run against a formidable Senegalese side, the LOC insists that discipline, unity, and respect inside the stadium will be just as important as the action unfolding on the pitch.
