World Cup (Q): Put demands intensity as Uganda eye back-to-back wins

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has challenged his charges to replicate the ruthless display that humbled Mozambique ahead of Monday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia at the Namboole Mandela National Stadium.

The Cranes revived their qualification hopes on Friday with a commanding 4-0 victory over Mozambique, overturning the 3-1 defeat suffered in Maputo earlier this year. That emphatic win propelled Uganda into second place in Group G on goal difference, keeping alive the dream of reaching the World Cup for the first time.

Addressing the media on Sunday, Coach Put described the performance against Mozambique as one of the finest he has overseen since taking charge. He urged his players to maintain the same level of intensity and precision when they face the Ocean Stars.

“If I show you the statistics from today’s game, you would be surprised. The performance even betters some of the teams in Europe in terms of the level of energies generated, the ball distribution, and chances created,” Put said.

“It was one of the best performances the team has had, and I am proud of the players. When the chances were created and the goals came, we grew in confidence. Now we must do the same against Somalia.”

Captain Khalid Aucho, however, cautioned against complacency despite Somalia’s struggles in the qualifiers. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of East African derbies, urging his teammates and fans not to underestimate the contest.

“This is a derby, and in Africa there is no big or small team. Everyone wants to win. The good thing is we are at home, and all we want is three points,” Aucho said, before calling for an even bigger turnout at Namboole.

“We recovered well, everyone is in good condition, and we are ready. So we call upon fans to come in big numbers better than the Mozambique game.”
Uganda’s attacking inspiration will once again rest heavily on Rogers Mato, the team’s top scorer in the qualifiers with three goals. The forward is in red-hot form, having netted twice against Mozambique, and will be key to unlocking Somalia’s backline.

Uganda vs. Somalia: Head-to-Head

Uganda boast a perfect record against Somalia, winning all their last five meetings. Their most recent encounter came in March 2023 in Berkane, where an early strike from Rogers Mato secured a 1-0 victory.

The Stakes

With Algeria six points clear at the summit, the race for the playoff spot is wide open. Uganda, Mozambique, Guinea, and Botswana are separated by just three points in the battle for second place.

The group winner qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the runners-up could earn a playoff route.

For Somalia, who have collected just one point from seven matches and are already out of contention, pride and the opportunity to spoil Uganda’s campaign provide the main motivation.

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