Mandela National Stadium to Host UPL Double Header as Test Events for Reopening
Frank Semata 
Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) is set to host a StarTimes Uganda Premier League doubleheader next week on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, as announced by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
The eagerly anticipated matches will feature BUL FC against Vipers Sports Club at 4 p.m followed by KCCA FC taking on SC Villa at 7 p.m. These fixtures have been carefully selected to serve as part of the test events preceding the official reopening of the stadium.
Mandela National Stadium has been out of commission since 2020 due to substandard conditions.
However, extensive renovations spearheaded by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, funded by a government allocation of Sh97 billion since 2022, have breathed new life into the iconic venue.
The upcoming test matches are crucial requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) before granting permission to host international games.
These events will provide CAF with valuable insights into the progress of the ongoing renovation works and the readiness of the stadium to meet international standards.
If the test events proceed smoothly and meet CAF's requirements, Uganda Cranes could potentially host the upcoming two World Cup qualification fixtures against Botswana on June 3rd and Algeria on June 10th at Namboole.
