Denis Onyango hails Uganda's ticket buyout for 2024 CHAN playoff
Uganda will host the CHAN 2024 third-place playoff between Sudan and Senegal at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Friday evening, with kickoff set for 6:00 pm.
Ugandan football legend Denis Onyango has praised the government’s decision to buy all tickets for the 2024 CHAN third-place playoff, saying it will give fans a chance to enjoy the game while boosting support for the national sport.
Onyango, who enjoyed a decorated career with Uganda Cranes and South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns, spoke about the deep bond between Ugandans and football, describing the game as both a source of joy and unity.
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“In Uganda, people love having fun, and football is part of that. It unites people because sometimes life gets difficult, but when they come to the stadium, they forget all their problems,” Onyango said.
His remarks come at a time when Uganda has faced challenges with low fan turnout during CHAN matches, particularly in the semifinals. Onyango believes this is down to poor mobilisation and the absence of Uganda’s team in the later stages of the tournament, but insists initiatives like free entry can reignite enthusiasm.
“The government’s move to buy tickets is very important because it makes the stadium full, and players feel loved,” Onyango noted. “We want to end this tournament on a high because we have a bigger one coming, the Africa Cup of Nations. The picture we paint now reflects what is to come in the future.”
The former goalkeeper also applauded the gesture as a statement of commitment to the growth of football in Uganda. “For the government to support the game this way is a very good idea. It shows belief in Ugandan football, and that’s how the sport will grow,” he said.
Uganda will host the CHAN 2024 third-place playoff between Sudan and Senegal at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Friday evening, with kickoff set for 6:00 pm.
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