2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Mozambique to host Uganda in Cairo after CAF rejects home venue

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has once again prohibited Mozambique’s Estadio do Zimpeto in Maputo from hosting international matches, citing substandard pitch conditions.

This decision, announced by the Mozambique Football Federation (FMF), follows two inspections conducted on February 17 and February 28, which identified multiple deficiencies.

According to the FMF, key concerns raised by CAF include the deteriorating playing surface and grass quality along with other structural issues that fail to meet international requirements.

As a result, Mozambique’s national football team, the ‘Mambas,’ will be forced to play their upcoming fixtures on neutral ground. With their next match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers set against Uganda on March 20, Mozambique must relocate the game.

CAF had given the FMF until March 7 to confirm an alternative venue that meets its standards. The governing body has since opted for Egypt’s Cairo International Stadium as the new host for this crucial fixture.

This marks the second time in just three months that Zimpeto Stadium has been deemed unfit for international matches, following a previous ban issued on December 15, 2024. The stadium was also barred in 2023, forcing Mozambique to host games in neighboring South Africa.

FMF President expressed concern over the stadium’s deteriorating condition and, on January 8, urged the government to allocate funds for its urgent renovation. Despite these appeals, the pitch remains below CAF’s required standards, leaving Mozambique to continue searching for temporary home grounds.

The Mambas will now turn their focus to the upcoming clash with Uganda, as they adjust to playing their home fixture on foreign soil once again.

2026 World Cup Qualifying: Group G Table (through four matches)

• The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.