Uganda’s quest for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains alive after a determined 2-0 victory over Somalia on Monday night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The win, their second consecutive triumph at home, keeps the Cranes firmly in the race in Group G, where they now sit second with 15 points, level with Mozambique and four behind leaders Algeria.
The Cranes started with intent, immediately taking control of the game. Their breakthrough came early when Aziz Kayondo’s marauding run was cut short inside the box, earning a penalty in the sixth minute. Allan Okello, calm and composed, sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Uganda an early lead amid roaring cheers from the home crowd.
Uganda’s dominance continued, and their second came in the 38th minute. Steven Mukwala’s powerful header was spilled by Somalia’s goalkeeper Mohammud Jama, leaving Jude Ssemugabi with a simple tap-in to double the advantage. Despite creating more chances before halftime, including close attempts from Mukwala and Kayondo, Uganda couldn’t stretch their lead further.
The second half was quieter, with the Cranes maintaining control but failing to capitalize on their possession. Mukwala missed a sitter early after the restart, while Okello and substitute Denis Omedi also came close. Somalia, ranked 200th globally, offered little threat apart from a few half-chances and set-piece attempts, but Uganda’s defence — marshalled by Elio Capradossi and debutant Toby Sibbick — remained solid.
Coach Paul Put made minimal changes, introducing fresh legs late in the game to manage fatigue, but the scoreline remained unchanged. While the performance lacked the flair of their 4-0 win over Mozambique, it was a professional display that secured the much-needed three points.
With two matches left — an away clash against Botswana and a potentially decisive tie against Algeria — Uganda’s hopes of direct qualification remain slim but alive. Only the group winners will qualify automatically, while the four best runners-up across Africa’s nine groups will head to playoffs for a chance in the inter-confederation playoffs.
