Toby Sibbick made a memorable debut for the Uganda Cranes on Monday night, delivering a solid performance in a 2-0 win over Somalia at Mandela National Stadium to keep Uganda’s 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive.
The 26-year-old defender, who recently committed to representing Uganda, slotted seamlessly into the backline alongside Elio Capradosi, Jordan Obita, and Abdul Aziz Kayondo. Calm and composed, Sibbick at right back helped secure a clean sheet in front of home fans and cherished every moment of his first competitive appearance.
“It’s my first game, and to play in the home stadium in front of these fans was special,” Sibbick said after the match.
“They’re always loud, always singing. I trust my ability, so when the coach called on me, I was ready. I’m happy with how I played.”
Uganda started strong, taking the lead in the 5th minute when Allan Okello calmly converted a penalty after Kayondo was fouled. Jude Ssemugabi made it 2-0 in the 38th minute, tapping in a rebound after Somalia’s goalkeeper spilled Steven Mukwala’s header from a Kayondo cross.
While the goals lit up the stadium, Sibbick’s composure in defense stood out. His positioning, aerial dominance, and reading of the game kept Somalia’s counterattacks at bay, setting the tone for a confident Cranes display.
The victory lifts Uganda to 15 points in Group G, level with Mozambique, and keeps them in the race for a historic World Cup qualification. With two crucial fixtures remaining, away to Botswana and Algeria, Sibbick believes belief will be key.
“There are two games left,” he said. “Algeria are only four points ahead, and we still play them. We just have to believe, fight, and keep the spirit high God willing, we make it to the World Cup.”
With belief in himself, Sibbick will hope this debut marks the start of a vital role in Uganda’s journey to the global stage and all other competitions including the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
