By Ronnie Wabomba
NATIONAL/SPORTS
The Uganda Cranes will look to build on their emphatic 4-0 victory over Mozambique when they host Somalia in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier tonight, Monday, September 8, at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. Kick-off is set for 7 pm.
Friday’s ruthless performance against the Mambas propelled Uganda into second place in Group G on goal difference, reviving hopes of securing a historic first-ever World Cup appearance. With 12 points, the Cranes are level with Mozambique and trail leaders Algeria by six points. The group winner qualifies directly, while the runner-up could secure a playoff berth.
Somalia, bottom of the table with just one point from seven matches, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Guinea at Namboole on Friday. Despite the Ocean Stars’ struggles, Uganda head coach Paul Joseph Put has warned against complacency.
“We played a good game against Mozambique, but that’s in the past,” said Put. “There are no easy games in Africa. We must prepare with the same focus and intensity to get another positive result.”
Put praised his players’ energy, precision, and ball distribution in Friday’s win, calling it one of the best performances under his tenure. He also urged fans to pack Namboole and act as the team’s “12th man.”
Captain Khalid Aucho echoed his coach’s sentiments, warning that East African derbies are always unpredictable. “In Africa, there is no big or small team. We want three points, but we must work for them,” Aucho said, calling for an even bigger turnout than the Mozambique game.
Uganda will welcome back forward Denis Omedi from suspension, but much of the attacking responsibility will again fall on in-form striker Rogers Mato, who scored twice against Mozambique and leads the Cranes’ scoring charts with three goals in the qualifiers.
Historically, Uganda has a perfect record against Somalia, winning all five of their past meetings. Their last encounter was in March 2023, when Mato’s early strike secured a 1-0 win in Berkane.
Elsewhere in Group G, Algeria face Guinea in Morocco in a tie that could shake up the table. A Guinea win, coupled with victories for Uganda and Mozambique, would leave the playoff race wide open heading into the final rounds.
For Somalia, the trip to Namboole is about pride — and the chance to derail Uganda’s World Cup dream. For the Cranes, it’s another must-win step toward history.
