KAMPALA, Uganda – On a vibrant Friday night under the floodlights at Mandela National Stadium, the Uganda Cranes delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (Group G).
The pulsating atmosphere, fueled by nearly 35,000 passionate fans, set the stage for what many are calling one of Uganda’s finest performances in recent years.The Cranes, led by coach Joseph Paul Put, showcased their attacking prowess in the second half after a goalless opening stanza on the moist hybrid grass.
A brace from Rogers Mato, a stunning long-range strike by talisman Allan Okello, and a towering header from defender Elio Capradossi sealed a comprehensive win, propelling Uganda to second place in Group G with 12 points, level with Mozambique but ahead on goal difference.
The breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Okello ignited the Namboole crowd with a sensational 35-yard strike that soared past Mozambique’s diving goalkeeper, Ivan Urrubal. Two minutes later, Uganda nearly doubled their lead, but Jude Ssemugabi’s effort was denied by the crossbar after a marauding run down the right flank.
Mozambique responded with a double substitution, introducing Manuel Kambala and Faizal Bangal, but their hopes of leveling the score were dashed when a teasing free-kick from Diogo Cabral struck the side-netting on the hour mark.
Uganda’s captain, Khalid Aucho, received a caution in the 58th minute for protesting a referee’s call, but the Cranes remained unfazed. The hosts’ dominance continued as Steven Desse Mukwala came close with a low drive that sailed wide in the 69th minute.
Moments later, Mukwala redeemed himself by setting up Mato, who curled home a beauty from inside the box, sending the Namboole faithful into a frenzy. Mato struck the woodwork earlier in the 66th minute, underlining Uganda’s relentless pressure.
Substitutions further energized the Cranes, with Tunisian-based Travis Mutyaba making an instant impact after replacing Mukwala. His inswinging delivery forced a corner in the 77th minute, keeping Mozambique’s defense on edge.
Mato then sealed his brace in the 79th minute, volleying home a third goal assisted by Okello’s incisive run into the area.As the clock ticked down, Uganda introduced Joseph Mpande and debutant Uche Mubiru, replacing the tireless Mato and Ssemugabi.
The final nail in Mozambique’s coffin came on the stroke of full time when Capradossi rose highest to head in Okello’s curling corner, capping a memorable night with a fourth goal.
Despite a late shot on target from Mozambique’s Bangal, expertly saved by goalkeeper Salim Jamal Magoola, the visitors could not spoil Uganda’s party. The Cranes’ defense, anchored by Capradossi and Jordan John Obita, held firm, with Elvis Bwomono thwarting a late scare.
This emphatic victory marks Uganda’s fourth win in the qualifiers, boosting their goal difference and confidence ahead of their next home clash against CECAFA rivals Somalia on Monday, September 8, 2025.
With momentum on their side, the Cranes are firmly in the hunt for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.