Uganda’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have come to an end following a 2–1 defeat to Group G leaders Algeria in a decisive clash played this evening at the Stade Hocine-Aït-Ahmed in Boukhalfa.
The Cranes made a dream start when Steven Mukwala fired home in the 6th minute, giving Paul Put’s side an early advantage that they valiantly defended for most of the game. Uganda frustrated the hosts with disciplined defending and swift counterattacks, keeping their qualification hopes alive deep into the second half.
However, Algeria’s relentless pressure finally paid off in the 81st minute when they levelled from the penalty spot. The North Africans were awarded a second penalty in stoppage time, which they also converted to seal the comeback victory — crushing Uganda’s World Cup aspirations in dramatic fashion.
Despite the loss, Uganda finishes their qualification campaign in second place with 18 points — their highest tally ever in World Cup qualifying history.
With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams, Africa will have nine direct slots and one additional team advancing through a playoff to be held in Morocco from 13–16 November 2025.
Cape Verde, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Ghana have already booked their tickets to the global showpiece.
