Friday, June 7
*Uganda 1-0 Botswana
Uganda Cranes marked their return to Namboole Stadium with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Botswana in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Friday.
The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Shaban Muhammad, coming off the bench, netted the winning goal.
The goal was a result of a well-coordinated play by substitutes; Bobosi Byaruhanga launched a long ball to Kitara’s Denis Omedi on the right flank, who then delivered a precise low cross to an onrushing Shaban, allowing him to tap in from close range.
The Cranes showcased commendable performance throughout the match, dominating the Botswana Zebras from the start.
However, the fans grew anxious as several scoring opportunities were missed, including a header by Fahad Bayo that went over the bar.
Right back Elvis Bwomono also found himself in promising positions twice, but failed to find the net on both occasions.
With this victory, Uganda joins Algeria, Guinea, and Mozambique on six points after three games in the group.
The Cranes now prepare to face Algeria on Monday at Namboole, a match that promises to be a tougher challenge.
Win Sets Conducive Platform For Algeria Clash
The Cranes received a hero’s welcome when they emerged for their warm-up, setting the tone for an ecstatic atmosphere that persisted throughout the game.
The passionate crowd at Namboole played a crucial role, creating a vibrant backdrop that spurred the team to secure a much-needed victory.
Playing at Namboole for the first time since their 2-0 victory over Malawi in the AFCON qualifiers in November 2019, the Cranes delivered a performance to remember.
Cranes coach Paul Put made strategic choices, opting for an offensive-minded squad and giving a debut to Italy-based defender Elio Capradossi.
Capradossi, paired with Halid Lwaliwa at center back, displayed remarkable confidence. He not only anchored the defense but also initiated plays from the back, seamlessly driving forward on several occasions.
Despite the Cranes’ dominance, the game remained deadlocked until the 74th minute when Shaban perfectly timed his run to break the tie, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
This impressive performance has reignited hope among fans, setting the stage for an intense upcoming clash against Algeria.
The Lineups
Uganda – Ismail Watenga, Elvis Bwomono, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Elio Capradossi, Kenneth Semakula, Ronald Ssekiganda, Allan Okello, Aziz Bayo, Travis Mutyaba, Steven Mukwala
Botswana – Phoko Goitseone, Sikele Motsholetsi, Benson Mangolo, Tebogo Kopelang, Dithokwe Thatayaone, Mosha Gaolaolwe, Edwin Mohutsiwa, Tumisang Orebonye, Vincent Sesiyi, Gilbert Baruti, Kabelo Seakanyeng
