Midfielder Khalid Aucho (33, 77 caps) will play his final match for Uganda against Botswana in Hoima on Saturday, FUFA has confirmed. Supporters will applaud him in the 8th minute.
On Saturday 14 November at 16:00 GMT (19:00 EAT), Uganda host Botswana at Hoima City Stadium in the CAN 2027 qualifiers. Beyond the points at stake, the match will provide the setting for Khalid Aucho’s farewell, the 33-year-old midfielder and wearer of the number 8 shirt, whose international retirement has been confirmed by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
The player announced his decision in October 2026, as reported by the Daily Express. He thus brings to a close thirteen years of service in the Cranes shirt, begun on 30 November 2013 and punctuated by 77 caps. A 78th appearance remains possible if he is selected.
Botswana, an old acquaintance
The two nations know each other well. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Uganda beat Botswana twice, 1-0 at Namboole in June 2024, then 1-0 in Francistown in October 2025, recalls All Football.
After two matchdays, Uganda, coached by Paul Put, top Group H with four points. They lead Botswana and Tunisia, on two points each, as well as Libya, on one point.
The reverse fixture will take place on Tuesday 17 November at 19:00 EAT, at the Gaborone National Stadium.
A farewell eagerly awaited in Hoima
Ahmed Hussein, FUFA’s corporate affairs director, said: “Of course, there will be a special moment for Khalid Aucho, the captain. He is one of the few players to have played at three CANs, in 2017, 2019 and 2025. He is a special player, who wears the number eight shirt, and he has been the fans’ favourite.”
In tribute to his number, supporters will applaud him in the 8th minute. Goalkeeper and captain Denis Onyango indicated that Aucho will automatically take the captain’s armband when he comes on to the pitch.
Aucho himself told the Daily Express: “It will be my first time in Hoima. It will be wonderful to play in Hoima, to feel the pitch and also to say goodbye to my supporters.”