Uganda Cranes boosted their chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs with a narrow 1–0 victory over Botswana on Thursday evening.
Jude Ssemugabi’s well-taken header in the 54th minute proved decisive for the visitors, sealing all three points in a tightly contested Group G encounter at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.
The result sees Uganda move to 18 points, maintaining second place in Group G, four behind leaders Algeria, who confirmed their direct qualification after defeating Somalia 3–0 earlier in the day.
With Algeria now assured of a spot at the World Cup, the Cranes are left battling for a playoff berth, reserved for the four best second-placed teams across the nine qualifying groups.
The match also marked the much-anticipated return of veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who came out of retirement to feature for the national team for the first time since March 2021, when Uganda faced Malawi.
Coach Paul Put made just one change from the side that started against Somalia last month, restoring Onyango between the posts.
Uganda dominated possession throughout the game, though clear-cut chances were limited. The best opportunity in the first half fell to Rogers Mato, whose powerful effort was well saved by the Botswana goalkeeper.
Nine minutes after the restart, Allan Okello’s precise corner kick found Ssemugabi, who rose highest to nod home the winner — a moment that could prove pivotal in Uganda’s qualification campaign.
The Cranes now sit fifth among the second-placed teams across all groups, keeping their playoff hopes alive heading into the final round of fixtures.
