Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put and captain Khalid Aucho have expressed confidence ahead of tonight’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mozambique at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. Kick-off is at 7 p.m.
The stakes could not be higher. Uganda sit fourth in Group G with nine points, three behind second-placed Mozambique, and with only four games left, this clash could prove decisive in the race for a maiden World Cup appearance.
The Cranes are seeking redemption after falling 3-1 to Mozambique in March. But back at Namboole, where they have won four of their last five matches in all competitions, Put believes his side has the edge.
“We are complete since yesterday. We had been missing some players earlier, which made preparations tough, but the confidence in the team is now high,” Put said.
“Playing before our fans gives us strength. We know we must take revenge against Mozambique if we want to stay in the race. I am confident in my players.”
Aucho echoed his coach’s optimism, stressing the team’s unity and experience.
“We thank God all players are okay, and the coaches have done a good job. We are happy, motivated and ready,” Aucho said.
“I have never been under pressure with the national team. I am proud to guide the young ones, just as I was guided before. The return of senior players gives us even more confidence.”
Uganda’s qualifying hopes were revived in March when Allan Okello’s first-half strike sealed a 1-0 victory over Guinea at Namboole, snapping a two-game losing streak. Now tied on nine points with Botswana but behind on goal difference, the Cranes will target maximum points from back-to-back home fixtures against Mozambique and Somalia.
Mozambique’s form and challenges
Mozambique arrive in Kampala reeling from a heavy 5-1 defeat to Algeria in March, where Wolfsburg striker Mohamed El Amine Amoura netted a hat-trick. That loss ended a strong run of three consecutive victories, including a win over Guinea and their triumph against Uganda.
Since then, Chiquinho Conde’s side has looked vulnerable, suffering a group-stage exit at the 2025 COSAFA Cup and a 2-0 friendly loss to South Africa in June.
Squad boost for Uganda
Uganda’s preparations have been strengthened by the return of experienced goalkeepers Denis Onyango and Salim Jamal, as well as 11 players from the 2024 CHAN squad led by Okello. Aucho and striker Steven Mukwala were late additions, further boosting the team’s depth.
Group G standings before Friday’s clash
Algeria – 15 points
Mozambique – 12 points
Botswana – 9 points
Uganda – 9 points
Guinea – 7 points
Somalia – 1 point
With leaders Algeria already pulling away, tonight’s game could be a defining moment for Uganda’s campaign. Victory at Namboole would close the gap on Mozambique and keep World Cup hopes alive.
The Cranes will remain at Namboole for their next fixture, hosting Somalia on Monday, 8 September, in match day eight.
