Football supporters in Uganda are set for an exciting match-day experience as English Premier League rivals Manchester United and Arsenal prepare to clash on December 20, 2026.
The highly anticipated encounter, which will be played at London’s Emirates Stadium, will be screened live at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) grounds in Kampala during the Coca-Cola-sponsored FanBench Watch Party.
The event will bring together supporters of both clubs for an evening of football, entertainment, friendly rivalry and exciting giveaways. Fans will watch the game on giant screens while enjoying music, interactions and other activities.
Speaking at the launch, Damalie Wasukira, a representative of Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda, said the partnership with FanBench reflects the brand’s commitment to creating shared experiences and bringing people together through memorable moments.
She noted that Coca-Cola’s global association with the English Premier League makes the partnership particularly meaningful, given the passion football generates among fans.
“On behalf of Coca-Cola, we are happy to partner with FanBench. We know Coca-Cola has always been part of these experiences when people are celebrating. Globally, we sponsor the Premier League, and for that reason, we are excited to be here,” Wasukira said.
Wasukira also announced that attendees would have an opportunity to win cash prizes of up to Shs1 million through a Coca-Cola promotion.
According to her, consumers who purchase any of the brand’s small-pack products can participate by scanning the QR code on the bottle for a chance to win.
At the launch, representatives of the Manchester United and Arsenal fan bases, led by their respective commanders, engaged in friendly exchanges as they tested each other’s knowledge of the two clubs.
Isaac Katende, popularly known as Kasuku, who represents Manchester United supporters in Uganda, said the initiative seeks to encourage togetherness among football fans despite their different club loyalties.
He emphasised that football rivalry should remain friendly and should not turn into hostility among supporters.
“It’s about having fun and enjoying the match-day experience. Football is a game that has to have a winner and a loser. Supporting football shouldn’t be like a war. Come, and let’s challenge each other with facts, not fists,” Katende said.
On his part, musician Wyclif Tugume, popularly known as Ykee Benda, who leads Arsenal’s fan base in Uganda, called on Gunners supporters from different parts of the country to attend in large numbers.
Ykee Benda expressed confidence in Arsenal’s chances of winning the encounter, encouraging fellow supporters to turn up and celebrate what he anticipates will be a victory for the North London club.
The December 20 FanBench Watch Party is expected to provide a platform for supporters of the two Premier League sides to enjoy the game together while celebrating the passion, excitement and camaraderie that football brings.
