Uganda Cranes Keep Focus After Victory Over Somalia

Uganda’s pursuit of a historic place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathered further momentum on Monday night as the Cranes beat Somalia 2-0 at Mandela National Stadium, their second straight win this month.

The result, while not as flamboyant as last week’s 4-0 rout of Mozambique, was enough to keep Uganda firmly in the qualification race. Allan Okello opened the scoring from the penalty spot inside six minutes after Azizi Kayondo was brought down in the box. Jude Ssemugabi then doubled the lead in the 39th minute, finishing off a well-worked move to put daylight between the two sides.

From then on, Uganda largely controlled proceedings but struggled to find a third goal, with Steven Mukwala and Rogers Mato missing good chances. Somalia, spirited but outmatched, rarely troubled goalkeeper Charles Lukwago.

The victory lifted Uganda to 15 points in Group G, level with Mozambique but ahead on goal difference. Algeria remains top with 19 points after a goalless draw with Guinea, keeping the group wide open. Somalia, meanwhile, remains rooted at the bottom, eliminated from the qualification picture.

For coach Paul Put, the night was about more than just the scoreline. “The players showed character and discipline. It’s important to keep focus because every match now is a final,” he said, reflecting on the Cranes’ progress.

The win also underlines Uganda’s steady climb under Put’s guidance. Earlier in the campaign, inconsistency had cast doubts on the team’s ability to compete with continental heavyweights. But back-to-back victories have rekindled the belief that qualification, either directly or via the playoff route, remains within reach.

Next month, Uganda faces two defining away fixtures: Botswana on October 6 and group leaders Algeria on October 13. Both matches could determine whether the Cranes make history by reaching their first-ever World Cup.

For the fans who packed the Mandela National Stadium and roared with every attack, Monday’s result was more than just three points. It was another step in a journey of hope, one that has the whole nation watching closely.