Uganda and Tanzania will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya. However, the ongoing AFCON in Morocco highlights how much work remains for both nations. East African teams have historically struggled against Africa’s football giants.
Both face possible early elimination in decisive group matches on Tuesday. Uganda clashes with Nigeria, while Tanzania meets Tunisia. Wins are almost mandatory for either team to reach the last 16. Uganda has secured only one victory in nine matches across three AFCON tournaments since 1978. Tanzania, appearing in just their fourth Cup of Nations, has yet to win a game.
Their last meeting ended 1-1 in Rabat, with Uganda missing a late penalty. Tanzania coach Miguel Angel Gamondi admitted, “We are the fourth-weakest team at AFCON, but our performance is improving.” Appointed just before the tournament, the Argentine arrived from Tanzanian club Singida Black Stars.
Despite a population of over 70 million, Tanzania ranks 112th in FIFA and 27th in Africa. Most squad members play domestically or in lower European leagues, while Ally Samatta leads as their most experienced star.Uganda ranks 17th in Africa and 85th globally, but the squad also lacks elite-level experience.
Belgian coach Paul Put focuses on youth development for 2027. “We aim to build a strong team for the next Cup,” he said. Both nations gain valuable experience, while Kenya, ranked 113th, has missed the last three AFCON tournaments.
