Uganda move top of Group H after late first-half winner against Libya

Uganda secured their first victory in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign by beating Libya 1-0 in Kampala, a result which moved them to the top of Group H.

Arnold Folayi scored the only goal in the second minute of first-half added time. The Uganda forward reacted quickest to a rebound and headed the loose ball into the net.

The defeat means Libya remain without a win after two matches. They began the campaign with a draw at home in the opening round and were unable to respond after falling behind against Uganda.

Uganda’s success was their first in Group H following three successive draws. They now have four points from their opening fixtures, while Botswana and Tunisia are level on two points each. Libya sit fourth with one point.

Only one team from Group H will qualify directly for the Africa Cup of Nations. Uganda’s automatic place at the tournament is already guaranteed because they are one of the host nations.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be held in June 2027 in Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya.

The qualifying competition is made up of 12 groups, with four teams in each section. In most groups, the top two sides will qualify directly for the tournament.

Groups D, H and L are exceptions because they include the host nations: Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania respectively. As a result, only one team from each of those groups will qualify, with the host nation already assured of a place.