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Ugandan referee Lucky Razake Kasalirwe has earned another major international assignment after being appointed to officiate the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Sierra Leone πΈπ± and Zimbabwe πΏπΌ.
The highly anticipated qualifier is scheduled for September 24, 2026, with Kasalirwe set to lead the officiating team as the two nations continue their campaigns for a place at the 2027 continental tournament.
The appointment represents another significant opportunity for the Ugandan match official to showcase his abilities on the international stage. AFCON qualifying matches are among the most demanding assignments for referees on the continent, requiring officials to maintain high levels of consistency, discipline and decision-making throughout the match.
Kasalirwe's selection also adds to Uganda's growing presence in African football officiating. His appointment means a Ugandan official will play a central role in ensuring that the encounter is conducted in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
The Sierra LeoneβZimbabwe fixture is expected to attract considerable attention as both teams seek valuable points in their respective qualification campaigns. With the stakes high, Kasalirwe and his fellow match officials will be tasked with managing the contest fairly while making crucial decisions on fouls, disciplinary matters, penalties and other incidents that could influence the outcome.
For Kasalirwe, the assignment is another milestone in his refereeing career and an opportunity to represent Uganda at one of Africa's premier international football competitions.
The 2027 AFCON will bring together Africa's leading national teams, making every qualifying fixture important as countries battle for places at the tournament. The experience gained by Ugandan officials such as Kasalirwe on the continental stage further contributes to Uganda's reputation in African football administration and officiating.
As Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe meet on September 24, attention will not only be on the players competing for their nations but also on the Ugandan official entrusted with overseeing the encounter.
