Setback for Uganda: Rogers Mato suspended for Mozambique clash

Mato in action for Uganda against South Sudan.

Photo by FUFA media.

Uganda Cranes will be without key winger Rogers Mato when they take on Mozambique in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Thursday, March 20.

Mato, a regular figure in Paul Put’s squad, is ruled out due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards earlier in the campaign. He was first booked in the 90th minute during Uganda’s 1-0 victory over Botswana in June 2023 before receiving another caution in the 23rd minute of the 2-1 defeat to Algeria.

Currently plying his trade with FK Vardar in North Macedonia, Mato has been an influential figure for the Cranes since his debut under Put in November 2023. His absence leaves a gap on the right flank, which could be filled by Allan Okello, Denis Omedi or Jude Ssemugabi.

Despite Mato’s setback, Uganda’s camp in Cairo is now at full house following the arrival of goalkeeper Ismael Watenga and Israel-based defender Timothy Awany.

The team is preparing intensively, aiming to secure a vital win before hosting Guinea at Namboole on Tuesday, March 25—a game in which Mato will be eligible to return.

Full Uganda Cranes Squad in Cairo, Egypt; Alionzi Nafian Joel Mutakubwa Elvis Bwomono Gavin Kizito Bevis Mugabi Toby Sibbick Rogers Torach Isaac Muleme Ronald Ssekiganda Kenneth Semakula Khalid Aucho Enock Ssebagala Abdul Karim Watambala Allan Okello Travis Mutyaba Denis Omedi Jude Ssemugabi Steven Mukwala Muhammad Shaban Calvin Kabuye Patrick Kakande Elio Capradossi Rogers Mato Aziizi Kayondo Hakim Kiwanuka Isima Watenga Timothy Awany.