By Spy Uganda
The Uganda Cranes strengthened their FIFA World Cup qualification campaign with a 2-0 win over Somalia at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Sunday.
Allan Okello calmed early nerves when he converted from the penalty spot, before Jude Semugabi doubled the advantage with a composed finish to put Uganda firmly in control before the break.
The Cranes dominated the second half, creating several openings, but striker Steven Mukwala squandered a clear chance to stretch the lead. Still, the first-half strikes proved enough to secure all three points.
“We wanted to kill off the game early and that penalty gave us confidence,” said Okello after the match. “Scoring for my country on such an important occasion means everything to me.”
The result lifts Uganda to second place in Group G with 15 points, four behind leaders Algeria, who were held to a goalless draw by Guinea. Mozambique also registered a key victory, keeping the qualification battle wide open.
Under FIFA’s new format, the nine African group winners qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the four best runners-up advance to an intercontinental playoff — a route the Cranes are now firmly chasing.
Head coach Paul Put praised his squad but cautioned against complacency. “I’m very proud of the boys. They showed discipline, hunger, and unity. But this journey is not finished. We must stay humble, work harder, and take every game like a final,” he said.
Namboole roared with color and song as fans rallied behind the team throughout the encounter. “The crowd was amazing today. Their energy pushed us to keep running and fighting. The dream is for the whole country, not just the players,” added Okello.
The victory builds on Uganda’s 4-0 demolition of Mozambique earlier in the campaign and marks back-to-back home triumphs. However, tougher tests loom, with decisive fixtures against Botswana and group leaders Algeria set to determine whether the Cranes can clinch a playoff spot — or even mount a challenge for top spot.
