By Andrew Gum
The Uganda Cranes are gearing up for two crucial away matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Botswana on 9 October and Algeria on 14 October. With 15 points from eight games, Uganda sits second in Group G, three points behind leaders Algeria and tied with Mozambique on goal difference.
Coach Paul Put’s new 26-man squad, announced recently, brings back big names like goalkeeper Denis Onyango and young midfielder Allan Oyirwoth. The Cranes are in a strong position to grab a top-two spot and reach the playoffs, but they must play smart to make history.
How Uganda got here
The Cranes’ journey in these qualifiers has shown steady progress in tactical evolution under Put, a Belgian coach whose approach has transformed Uganda from perennial underdogs into a competitive side. The campaign kicked off in late 2024 with a morale-boosting 1-0 home win over Guinea, where Allan Okello scored.
At Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, Uganda has collected 10 points from four matches, conceding just once. A 2-0 victory against Somalia in September highlighted their attacking strength, with Allan Okello and Jude Ssemugabi on the scoresheet. They also beat Botswana at home, with Shaban scoring the lone goal.
Away games, however, have been tougher. Uganda has only one win from four matches on the road, taking just three points. A 3-1 loss to Mozambique in March 2025 hurt badly, especially after Denis Omedi was sent off. A 2-1 loss to Algeria away also exposed the team’s struggles, particularly in creating clear chances to score.
Weaknesses to fix
Uganda’s issues are more evident away from home. Defenders like Aziz Kayondo, Jordan Obita and Elio Capradossi often struggle against fast wingers, leaving gaps at the back. Goalkeepers Allionzi Nafian and Onyango have also made costly errors under pressure.
The attack dips in away matches too, with only two goals from open play in four games. The team tends to rely heavily on penalties or set pieces, which is not always a reliable source of goals.
Chances of qualifying
To secure a playoff spot or even direct qualification, Uganda needs at least a top-two finish in Group G. Six points from the two upcoming matches would all but guarantee this. Botswana, with only six points and a vulnerable defence that has conceded 10 goals, presents a good chance for victory.
If Uganda exploits their fast attackers such as Denis Omedi, Rodgers Mato and Jude Ssemugabi, they could secure a favourable result. Algeria, however, will be far tougher. They have won seven of their eight games and are the group’s most consistent side. Even so, with unity and determination, Uganda can still cause problems.
A draw in Algeria would be valuable, while a win would require near-perfect execution. Even four points from the two fixtures (a win and a draw) could keep Uganda in second place, provided Mozambique does not outscore them.
To beat Botswana, Uganda must start strongly, with Khalid Aucho and Kenneth Semakula breaking up play in midfield and creating chances for Allan Okello, Rodgers Mato and Denis Omedi on the wings. If the Cranes play with pace, remain disciplined at the back, and capitalise on their attacking flair, they can deliver the results needed to stay on course for World Cup history.
