Botswana came from behind to hold co-hosts Uganda to a 1-1 draw in a TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 qualifier on Saturday, denying the Cranes a second consecutive Group H victory.

Jude Bogere put Uganda ahead in the 8th minute, completing an attacking move engineered by Toby Sibbick. The early goal appeared to set the Cranes on course for maximum points, but Botswana gradually worked their way back into the match.

Losika Ratshukudu drew the visitors level in the 31st minute, converting an assist from Gape Baruti to send both sides into the break all square.

Second half fails to produce a winner

The second half saw both coaches turn to their benches in search of a decisive breakthrough. Uganda introduced Bobosi Byaruhanga and Travis Mutyaba, while Botswana also made changes to freshen up their side. Despite the renewed energy, neither team could find a winner and the deadlock held until the final whistle.

Group H standings

Uganda remain top of Group H with five points from three matches, one ahead of Libya. Botswana sit third with three points — all earned from draws — while Tunisia occupy fourth place with two points. The group is finely balanced at the halfway stage of the qualifying campaign.

As co-hosts of the 2027 finals alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda have already secured automatic qualification. That means the remaining qualification spot is a three-way contest between Libya, Botswana, and Tunisia.

The two sides are due to meet again on Tuesday, 17 November, when Botswana host the return fixture — a clash that could prove pivotal in the race for that final qualifying place.