• Uganda Cranes sit second in Group G with 15 points, just behind leaders Algeria (19).
  • Wins against Botswana and Algeria will decide if Uganda reaches the playoff stage or makes World Cup history.
  • Mozambique’s easier fixture run adds extra pressure, making Uganda’s October qualifiers crucial.

Following last night’s win against Somalia at the Mandela National Stadium, the Uganda Cranes boosted their chances at making history by qualifying for their first ever FIFA World Cup. With the 2026 World Cup in North America and Mexico months away, every match now is crucial.

It should be noted that only the group winner in the CAF WC qualifying groups qualifies directly for the World Cup. The runner-up may advance to another playoff round and potentially reach the inter-confederation playoffs.

After eight matches, Uganda sits second in Group G with 15 points, 4 points Algeria’s 19. The East Africans also share the same points with Mozambique although Uganda edges ahead on goal difference. Therefore with just two matches remaining set for October, the stakes couldn’t be much higher for coach Joseph Paul Put’s side.

Following a dominant 4–0 win over Mozambique, Uganda beat Somalia 2–0 at home as goals from Allan Okello (penalty) and Jude Ssemugabi helped secure maximum points and improve Cranes’ chances. This means that the Cranes have won their previous 3 games in the WC qualifiers with a 7+ goal difference as they did not concede a single goal in all of the games.

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For now, Uganda has just two qualifying games left in October. Both of these are away games with the first being against Botswana and the last one against North African giants, Algeria.

What could determine qualification?

  • Victory over Botswana would cement Uganda’s hold on second place and likely send them into the playoff rounds.
  • A draw or loss, however, could shift advantage back to Mozambique, making goal difference and the final round of matches decisive.
  • Winning the group remains a steep challenge, as Algeria appears firmly in control and likely to claim the automatic spot.
  • Mozambique meanwhile seems to have an easier run of fixtures as they will play Guinea at home and then Somalia away. Therefore Uganda might find it much harder than their competitors.

Therefore Uganda’s dream of reaching a World Cup is alive thanks to strong recent performances and a favorable position in Group G.

But with just two games left, only top form and tight execution stand between the Cranes and a potential playoff lifeline. Emerging as a runner up in Group G will be just a step forward towards the grand dream, therefore one step at a time for now.