Uganda signs TV deal for soccer tie against Nigeria

The Federation of Ugandan Football Associations (FUFA) has signed a deal with South African company RP Productions to have it broadcast the Uganda-Nigeria African Nations Cup qualifier June 2 at Namboole.

FUFA marketing official Dennis Mbidde confirmed that the deal is worth 40 million Ugandan shillings (22,000 U.S. dollars) and disclosed that the deal might top 75 million shillings if FUFA meets other contractual procedures.

"RP will be in charge of all the television rights, and 26 of the 32 pitch boards on match day. FUFA has retained 6 boards to be sold to its local sponsors," said Mbidde.

The match is to be broadcast live in Uganda, Nigeria and South Africa. Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) can also access the game since it will be on the Canal France International (CFI) channel.

"The match will also be broadcast on Canal France International.UBC will also show the game because RP will use their equipment. Super Sport's crew will help in the production," he added.

Mbidde disclosed that the Cranes versus Super Eagles tickets will go on sale from May 18, the day they arrive from South Africa, to May 30. FUFA is in talks with Simba Telecom and Shell Uganda to sell the 40,000 tickets in their outlets throughout the country.

The Cranes, who last participated in the Nations Cup finals in 1978, losing 2-0 to the hosts Ghana in the final, have been drawn to play the qualifiers in the same group along with Nigeria, Niger and Lesotho.

The group winners and the best three runner-ups from the 12 four-team pools would compete in the finals from January 20 to February 10 2008, with hosts Ghana qualifying automatically.

Uganda now place second with four points, while Nigeria leads the group with nine points. The Cranes have home games against Nigeria and Niger, and an away tie against Lesotho who they humbled 3-0 in the opening group game.

Source: Xinhua