2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
- Uganda Vs Mozambique- 7 PM
Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho has called on his teammates and fans to rise to the occasion as Uganda prepares for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mozambique this Friday at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The Cranes sit fourth in Group G with nine points, three behind Mozambique and seven adrift of leaders Algeria. Victory is a must to keep their dream of reaching a first-ever World Cup alive.
Aucho, recalled to Paul Put’s squad after being left out on the original squad, remains optimistic despite the challenge ahead.
“The dream is still on,” Aucho said.
“Our target is to win the remaining matches and see where that takes us.”
Uganda welcomes a major boost with the return of legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango, back from a four-year retirement, and English-based forward Ikpeazu Mubiru, who finally honored his first call-up.
Coach Paul Put will, however, miss forward and defender, John Paul Dembe and Herbert Bockhorn, who skipped the summons.
Onyango’s comeback sets up strong competition for the starting spot alongside Jamal Salim, returning after nearly two years.
In attack, Mubiru joins Joseph Mpande to strengthen a frontline that already includes Steven Mukwala, Jude Ssemugabi, and Denis Omedi.
At the back, CHAN standouts Hilary Mukundane and Rogers Torach are available to partner Italy-based Elio Capradosi.
Mozambique, second with 12 points, arrive hungry to complete a double over Uganda after their 3-1 first-leg win.
Coach Chiquinho Conde has called up 25 players, led by Reinaldo Mandava of Sunderland and Geny Catamo of Sporting Lisbon.
With four games left, Friday’s showdown at Namboole is a chance for Uganda to avenge their first-leg defeat, close the gap on Mozambique, and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
