By Nsereko Hamzah Kawuma
Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has praised the quality of Hoima City Stadium, saying the modern facility provides an important boost to players’ confidence and contributes to a positive match-day environment.
Put made the remarks following Uganda’s 2026 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory over Libya at Hoima City Stadium on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Uganda Cranes head coach commended the condition of the stadium and, in particular, the quality of the playing surface, which he said created a comfortable environment for the players.
“It is a very nice stadium. The field is good, and the players felt good. It gives them more mental power,” Put said.
The coach also praised the supporters who turned up to back the national team, highlighting the role of a strong home crowd in creating an atmosphere that can positively influence players.
“The supporters also made a big influence. I can only say thank you to the Government of Uganda for these efforts. It helps football move forward,” he added.
Put’s comments underline the growing importance of quality football infrastructure in supporting the development of the game and enhancing the experience of players and supporters alike.
Hoima City Stadium is among the facilities being developed and upgraded as Uganda strengthens its sports infrastructure ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.
The availability of a modern facility in Hoima also provides an opportunity for Uganda to host major football fixtures outside Kampala, bringing the national team closer to supporters across different regions of the country.
For the Uganda Cranes, the successful staging of an international fixture at Hoima City Stadium represents another step towards expanding the geographical reach of top-level football while showcasing Uganda’s growing capacity to host major continental sporting events.
As preparations for AFCON 2027 gather pace, facilities such as Hoima City Stadium are expected to form part of Uganda’s broader tournament infrastructure, supporting the country’s ambition to deliver a successful championship alongside its co-hosts, Kenya and Tanzania.
