Sand Cranes player Paul Lule is confident Uganda will beat Burundi in Sunday’s decisive return leg of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Beach Soccer qualifiers at Bunjako Beach.

Uganda fought back from 3-0 down to draw 4-4 in the first leg in Bujumbura, keeping their hopes of qualification alive. Lule believes the Sand Cranes will finish the job on home sand.

“We were away in the first leg against Burundi, fell behind but managed to come back and pull a point. However, I am here to promise you that we are going to finish it here at home,” Lule said.

He also called on fans to rally behind the team as Uganda seeks a place at the continental finals in Senegal.

“Our training has been going on well, and I promise that we are going to win against them on Sunday. I call upon all you fans who enjoy beach soccer; your support will add so much,” he added.

Sharif Opuli and Jonah Mugisha scored twice each in the first leg to help Uganda recover from the three-goal deficit and force a draw.

The Sand Cranes have stepped up preparations under coaches Geofrey Akabwai and Ricky Byaruhanga. On Tuesday, they beat Standard High School Zana5-2 in a practice match before holding a recovery session at Bunjako Beach on Wednesday.

The sessions have allowed the technical team to assess the players, sharpen tactics and build team chemistry ahead of the return leg.

Uganda has also strengthened its squad with the addition of Baker Lukooya and Brian Nkuubi as the team seeks to make home advantage count.

The match, initially scheduled for Bamboo Gardens in Kasanje, has been moved to Bunjako Beach in Buwama, Mpigi District.

With the aggregate score tied at 4-4, Sunday’s winner will secure qualification for the 2026 AFCON Beach Soccer tournament in Senegal.