The Uganda Cranes, the national soccer team of Uganda, are fired up as they prepare to take on Somalia in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match. The game will be played on Tuesday at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, and head coach Paul Put has a very clear message for his players: “Do exactly what you did against Mozambique.”
And that’s some big motivation because Uganda’s last game was a complete show of dominance. The Cranes defeated Mozambique 4-0, a result that shocked many and reminded everyone that Uganda’s dream of reaching its first-ever World Cup is still alive.
Uganda’s Big Win Over Mozambique
Just a few days ago, Uganda fans were celebrating one of the most impressive performances in recent memory. The Cranes went into their match against Mozambique with doubts hanging over them, especially because earlier this year, they had lost 3-1 away in Maputo. Many people thought Mozambique might have Uganda’s number.
But at home in Kampala, Uganda turned the tables in style:
Allan Okello scored the opening goal to get the crowd going.
Rogers Mato doubled the lead with a brilliant finish.
Rising star Travis Mutyaba made it 3-0.
Finally, defender Elia Capradossi scored the fourth goal with a powerful header from a set piece.
The 4-0 win wasn’t just about goals. Uganda looked sharp, quick, and full of energy. They controlled possession, created plenty of chances, and played with the kind of confidence that top international teams show.
Paul Put: “Repeat That Against Somalia”
Coach Paul Put, a Belgian with lots of experience coaching in Africa, was full of praise for his players. Speaking before the Somalia game, he said:
“If I show you the statistics from the game against Mozambique, you would be surprised. The performance even betters some of the teams in Europe in terms of energy, ball distribution, and chances created. It was one of the best performances this team has had, and I am proud of the players. Now we must do the same against Somalia.”
In other words, Put doesn’t want the Mozambique victory to be a one-time thing. He wants Uganda to keep that same momentum going, especially since Somalia is considered one of the weaker sides in Group G.
The Captain’s Warning
Uganda’s captain, Khalid Aucho, also spoke to reporters. While he was happy about the big win, he warned his teammates not to underestimate Somalia:
“This is a derby, and in Africa, there is no big or small team. Everyone wants to win. The good thing is we are at home, and all we want is three points. We call upon fans to come in big numbers, better than the Mozambique game.”
Aucho’s words are important because in African football, surprises happen often. A team that looks weak on paper can suddenly rise to the occasion, especially in World Cup qualifiers where every point matters.
Group G Standings
Uganda’s win over Mozambique pushed them into second place in Group G with 12 points. The standings are currently:
Algeria – 18 points
Uganda – 12 points (better goal difference than Mozambique)
Mozambique – 12 points
Guinea – 10 points
Botswana – 9 points
Somalia – 0 points
The top team from each group qualifies directly for the World Cup. Second place isn’t enough unless you’re one of the best four runners-up, who will then play in knockout matches to fight for a spot in the FIFA Play-Off Tournament. That’s why every goal and every point is huge for Uganda.
Uganda’s History Against Somalia
Uganda has been dominant against Somalia in past encounters. According to stats from FUFA (Federation of Uganda Football Associations), the Cranes have won all of their last five meetings with Somalia.
The most recent meeting came in March 2023 in Berkane, Morocco. Uganda won 1-0 thanks to an early strike from Rogers Mato.
Somalia, also known as the Ocean Stars, have struggled in qualifiers, and they’re still without a win in this campaign.
That history gives Uganda confidence, but it also sets up a tricky situation: Somalia will be desperate to change their record and surprise the Cranes.
Soccer Facts and News Combo
To make sense of why this game matters so much, here are some cool soccer facts:
⚽ Fact 1: Uganda has never qualified for a FIFA World Cup in its history. Their closest attempt came during qualifiers for the 1978 World Cup, the same year they reached the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
⚽ Fact 2: Somalia is ranked among the lowest African teams in FIFA rankings, but they’ve had moments of pride, like their 2019 upset win against Zimbabwe in a World Cup preliminary qualifier.
⚽ Fact 3: In World Cup history, only 13 African nations have ever qualified for the tournament. Powerhouses like Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana dominate, but teams like Morocco and Senegal have recently raised the bar.
📰 Soccer News Combo: Around Africa, other Group G matches are heating up too. Algeria remains unbeaten and are favorites to win the group. Guinea is still pushing hard for a top-two finish, while Botswana continues to surprise opponents with strong performances at home.
Why This Match Matters
For Uganda:
A win keeps them tied on points with Algeria, depending on other results.
A strong performance boosts confidence for the remaining qualifiers.
Scoring plenty of goals helps their goal difference, which could decide who finishes second.
For Somalia:
Even though they’re last in the group, a positive result could boost morale.
Playing against a regional rival like Uganda gives them extra motivation.
Fans’ Role
Uganda’s players and coaches have called on fans to fill the Nelson Mandela Stadium. A packed crowd can make a huge difference. In Africa, home advantage is massive – not just because of the field but also because of the energy and noise from supporters.
Final Thoughts
Uganda’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique showed what the Cranes are capable of when they play with focus and intensity. Now, as they prepare to face Somalia, the challenge is to stay consistent.
Coach Put wants the same sharp passing, quick pressing, and clinical finishing. Captain Aucho wants caution and respect for the opponent. The fans want more goals and more celebrations.
If Uganda delivers another strong performance, their dream of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will stay very much alive. And for a country that has longed for this moment for decades, every game feels like a final.