Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put has called on his team to replicate the ruthless performance that saw them dismantle Mozambique 4-0, as they gear up for another critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia on Monday at the Namboole Mandela National Stadium.
The Cranes reignited their qualification hopes with Friday’s commanding win, which propelled them to second place in Group G on goal difference, overturning a previous 3-1 defeat to Mozambique in Maputo. The result kept Uganda firmly in the race for a historic first-ever World Cup appearance.
Addressing the media ahead of the Somalia clash, Coach Put hailed the Mozambique victory as one of the most impressive displays since he took charge. He emphasized the need to maintain the same energy, intensity, and precision.
“If I show you the statistics from today’s game, you would be surprised,” Put said. “The performance even betters some of the teams in Europe in terms of the level of energies generated, the ball distribution, and chances created. It was one of the best performances the team has had, and I am proud of the players. Now we must do the same against Somalia.”
Despite Somalia’s poor run in the qualifiers—just one point from seven matches—Uganda captain Khalid Aucho cautioned against underestimating their opponents. He reminded the squad that regional derbies can be unpredictable and that the stakes remain high regardless of rankings.
“This is a derby, and in Africa there is no big or small team. Everyone wants to win,” Aucho said. “The good thing is we are at home, and all we want is three points.” He also called on fans to pack the stadium, urging for an even bigger turnout than in the previous match. “We recovered well, everyone is in good condition, and we are ready. So we call upon fans to come in big numbers.”
Uganda’s attacking hopes will once again rest on forward Rogers Mato, who is currently in red-hot form. He scored twice against Mozambique, bringing his total to three goals in the qualifiers, and is expected to play a pivotal role in breaking down Somalia’s defense. Uganda boasts a perfect record against Somalia, having won all of their last five meetings. The most recent encounter came in March 2023, when Mato’s early goal secured a narrow 1-0 victory in Berkane.
With Algeria comfortably leading Group G, the battle for second place—and a potential playoff route—is wide open. Uganda, Mozambique, Guinea, and Botswana are separated by just three points, making every match vital in the race to secure qualification. For Somalia, already out of contention, the chance to salvage pride and potentially spoil Uganda’s campaign serves as motivation heading into Monday’s clash.
