Nile Kings begin 2027 Handball World Cup qualifiers against Angola
Right back Felix Mukunzi will shoulder much of the responsibility as the Nile Kings open their campaign in the qualifiers.
UPDF's player attacks the Rwanda Police during the semi-final Game. PHOTO: Johnson Were
Handball Africa Cup of Nations in Kigali
January 21-31
Wednesday’s Fixtures
Uganda v Angola
Algeria v Nigeria
Tunisia v Cameroon
Rwanda v Zambia
(Thursday January 22,2026
Uganda vs Gabon
The path to the 2027 Handball World Cup is set, and Uganda will take the stage on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, against Angola in the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Kigali, Rwanda.
Right back Felix Mukunzi will shoulder much of the responsibility as the Nile Kings open their campaign in the qualifiers. The team steps onto the court fully aware of what is at stake, victory in the opener would significantly boost hopes of advancing from the group stages.
Head coach Jimmy Orotin is banking on the experience of Mukunzi and team captain Francis Ongom to lead the charge.
“The boys are in good mood and shape to put up a solid game against our opponents. The team arrived well, we had some simple training drills, and we are ready for them,” Orotin said.
Anticipating a physical contest from Angola, Orotin emphasized that his preparations have focused not only on strength but also on fitness and endurance.
“We are not shaken by the opposition. The message to the boys is to enjoy every minute of the experience and live in the moment—one game at a time,” he added.
The Nile Kings will next face Gabon on Thursday before closing their group stage fixtures against defending champions Egypt on Saturday.
Elsewhere on Wednesday, Algeria will take on Nigeria, Tunisia will face Cameroon, and hosts Rwanda will play Zambia.
Uganda’s probable squad includes: Francis Ongom (captain), Felix Mukunzi, Gerald Pirwoth, Medard Twine, Daniel Bongomin, Edmond Omony, Abel Mukiibi, Keith Bemugisha, and Ignatius Anzoretu.
The 16-team tournament will see the top four sides qualify for the 2027 World Cup, scheduled for January 13–31 in Germany, where Denmark will defend their crown.