2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
- Algeria 2-1 Uganda
Uganda’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup were crushed on Tuesday night after a 2-1 defeat to Algeria at the Stade Hocine Ait Ahmed.
Paul Put’s men went into the decisive clash knowing victory could secure a playoff spot among the best second-placed teams and for much of the game, that dream seemed alive.
The Cranes started brightly, with Steven Mukwala striking in the sixth minute to silence the home crowd.
Minutes later, Jude Ssemugabi came close to doubling the lead but narrowly missed after being set up by Mukwala.
At the other end, goalkeeper Salim Magoola pulled off crucial saves to keep Uganda ahead at halftime.
After the break, Uganda continued to defend bravely and almost grabbed a second through Allan Okello, whose low drive went inches wide. But the momentum shifted late on.
In the 80th minute, Algeria were awarded a controversial penalty for a handball against Mukwala, which Mohamed Amoura converted to level the score.
Four minutes later, another penalty was given, this time after Magoola was adjudged to have fouled in the box. Amoura again stepped up to seal Algeria’s comeback.
The defeat ended Uganda’s World Cup hopes despite finishing second in their group with 18 points, a commendable effort that showed the team’s steady progress under Paul Put.
With the World Cup dream over, the Cranes now turn their attention to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in December.
