KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Uganda Cranes secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Somalia on Monday night at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, moving them one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Two well-taken goals in the first half from Allan Okello and Jude Ssemugabi were enough to seal the three points for the home side in a dominant display.
From the opening whistle, the Cranes asserted their control. Their early pressure paid off in the fifth minute when talisman Allan Okello calmly converted a penalty, awarded after left-back Abdul Azizi Kayondo was fouled in the box. The home crowd erupted as Okello confidently slotted the ball past the diving Somali goalkeeper.
Despite a series of missed opportunities, Uganda doubled their lead in the 38th minute. A powerful header from Steven Desse Mukwala was spilled by the keeper, and Jude Ssemugabi was in the right place at the right time to tap home the rebound, scoring his first goal of the qualifying campaign.
The 2-0 scoreline, however, doesn’t fully reflect the Cranes’ control and numerous chances created throughout the match. While the team’s finishing left something to be desired, the overall performance was a positive sign for coach Paul Put’s side. Notable performances came from defender Toby Peter Sibbick on his home debut and the solid central defensive partnership of Elio Capradossi and John Jordan Obita.
The win puts Uganda on 15 points in Group G, level with Mozambique, who also won their match against Botswana. Algeria, who were held to a draw by Guinea, remain at the top of the group with 19 points. With two matches remaining, the race for the top spot and the potential playoff place is wide open, and the Cranes’ victory is a significant step forward on their journey to the World Cup.