On Uganda’s Independence Day, national pride is taking on an extra layer of significance as the Uganda Cranes prepare to face Botswana in a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Thursday.
Speaking ahead of the crucial tie at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium, Head Coach Paul Put and team captain Khalid Aucho expressed unwavering confidence in their squad’s readiness and focus.
“The players are in good shape and everyone is ready for tomorrow’s game against Botswana,” said Coach Put. “We have no excuses, and the players are aware of the task ahead. We hope our supporters, wherever they are, rally behind us — and hopefully we make them happy.”
Uganda currently holds second place in Group G with 15 points, trailing leaders Algeria by four. A win against Botswana would be vital in keeping Uganda’s dream of reaching its first-ever World Cup alive.
Captain Aucho, a key figure in Uganda’s 2016 away win over Botswana, echoed the coach’s sentiments, drawing confidence from past triumphs.
“The players are ready, and we go into the game carrying confidence in ourselves, believing we can secure maximum points here,” Aucho said. “We’ve done it before, and I trust the team to do it again.”
Uganda’s historic 2-1 victory over Botswana in 2016, where Aucho and William Kizito Luwagga scored, remains a powerful reminder of what’s possible.
The match marks the penultimate round in the qualifiers, with Uganda needing not just a win but momentum heading into the final round.
