Category: Uganda Cranes

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations has confirmed the Uganda Cranes squad for the forthcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Uganda will play Botswana on 9 October 2025 before facing Algeria on 14 October 2025.

Head Coach Paul Put has named a squad that blends experience with youthful energy. The goalkeeping department features Magoola Salim Omar from Richards Bay in South Africa, Denis Onyango of Mamelodi Sundowns and Alionzi Nafian of Defence Forces in Ethiopia. This trio provides a strong backbone for the team.

In defence the Cranes have called up Toby Sibbick who plays for Burton Albion in England together with Elio Capradossi of Universitatea Cluj in Romania and Jordan Obita from Hibernian in Scotland. Rogers Torach and Hilary Mukundane represent Vipers SC while Abdu Azizi Kayondo plays in the Czech Republic with FC Slovan Liberec. Herbert Achayi and Gavin Kizito both from KCCA FC complete the defensive unit.

The midfield is anchored by Kenneth Semakula of Al Adalah in Saudi Arabia alongside Khalid Aucho who features for Singida United in Tanzania. Allan Oyirworth of New England Revolution in the United States is also included. Enock Ssebagala and Ronald Ssekiganda represent Vipers SC and APR FC respectively while Bobosi Byaruhanga from Oakland Roots in the United States adds further depth.

The forward line is led by Allan Okello of Vipers SC, Denis Omedi of APR FC in Rwanda and Travis Mutyaba who features for CS Sfaxien in Tunisia. Joseph Mpande who plays in Vietnam and Rogers Mato of FK Vardar in Macedonia add valuable international experience. Reagan Mpande of SC Villa, Jude Ssemugabi of Jamus FC in South Sudan and Chukwu Uche Ikpeazu of St Johnstone in Scotland are also included. The list is completed by Steven Mukwala of Simba SC in Tanzania.

The Uganda Cranes boosted their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with a convincing 2-0 win over Somalia on Monday evening at Mandela National Stadium reclaiming second place in Group G.

Allan Okello set the tone early with a composed penalty conversion in the 6th minute, giving the hosts an ideal start after left back Azizi Kayondo was fouled in the box.

Somalia, already bottom of the table, struggled to cope with Uganda’s tempo and attacking pressure. The advantage was doubled before halftime when Jude Ssemugabi pounced in the 39th minute to finish from close range, effectively sealing the contest.

With a two-goal cushion, the second half turned into a controlled display from the Cranes, who comfortably saw out the match to secure all three points.

Elsewhere in the group, Guinea’s bid to keep their qualification dreams alive was dented after they were held to a goalless draw by leaders Algeria in Casablanca.

Both sides carved out clear chances, but inspired goalkeeping from Guinea’s Moussa Camara and Algeria’s Alexis Guendouz ensured the spoils were shared.

Earlier on Monday, Mozambique kept pace in the race for the playoff spot with an important 2-0 win over Botswana, leaving them level on points with Uganda.

The battle for second place is now wide open, with Uganda and Mozambique both on 15 points. Guinea’s stalemate leaves them with an uphill task, while Algeria remain in command of the group.

Group G Standings (After 8 Matches)

Algeria – 19 points
Uganda – 15 points (GD: +5)
Mozambique – 15 points (GD: -3)
Guinea – 11 points
Botswana – 9 points
Somalia – 1 point

With just two matches remaining, the final round of fixtures in October promises a thrilling finish to Group G, as Uganda and Mozambique go head-to-head in a battle for the playoff slot.

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put has challenged his charges to replicate the ruthless display that humbled Mozambique as they prepare for another crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia on Monday, September 8, 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.

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.

Uganda Cranes produced a scintillating performance on Friday, defeating Mozambique 4-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Allan Okello opened the scoring before Rogers Mato struck twice, while Elio Capradosi sealed the emphatic win to give Uganda their fourth victory of the campaign.

The result lifts Uganda to 12 points from seven matches, level with Mozambique but ahead on goal difference. Algeria lead the group with 18 points, while Guinea and Botswana have ten and nine points respectively. Somalia sit bottom with a single point.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Paul Put expressed his delight with the team’s response following the first-leg defeat to Mozambique.

‘I told my players that people were waiting for revenge, and today they showed what football is. We created many chances and kept the pressure on Mozambique. 4-0 is a great result and I am very happy.’

Despite the commanding display, Put voiced disappointment at the stadium turnout.

‘I was a little bit disappointed because I expected a full stadium. For the next game, please come out and support your boys, because the road is still long. But I have to congratulate my players—we did a marvellous job today.’

Uganda now shift focus to their next fixture on Monday against Somalia at Namboole, before two decisive away trips to Botswana and Algeria.

---

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put and skipper Khalid Aucho have voiced confidence and determination ahead of Friday’s big 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Mozambique at the Namboole Mandela National Stadium.

The two nations are separated by just three points in Group G, with Uganda sitting fourth on nine points while Mozambique occupy second place with 12.

With only four games left, this encounter could prove pivotal in shaping both sides’ chances of making their first-ever appearance at the mundial.

Put backs his squad for revenge

Uganda head into the clash with redemption on their minds, having suffered a 3-1 defeat to Mozambique in March. Coach Paul Put believes the return to home soil, where Uganda boast four wins in their last five outings across all competitions, will give his team the edge.

“We are complete since yesterday. We have been missing some players days back so it becomes difficult to prepare a team but I think the confidence in the team is now high,” Put said.

“We are playing before our fans, we know we have to take revenge against Mozambique and if we want to be in the race then we know what we have to do in tomorrow’s game. I am confident in my players.”

🎙️ ‘We know what we have to do’

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put’s pre match comments ahead of tomorrow's game against Mozambique.#FIFAWorldCup | #UGAMOZ pic.twitter.com/N7n0Chc0pv

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 4, 2025

Aucho leads the charge

Cranes skipper Khalid Aucho echoed his coach’s optimism, stressing unity and experience as the driving forces behind their preparations.

“We thank God all players are okay and the coaches have done a good job. We are all happy, motivated and ready for the game tomorrow,” Aucho stated.

“I have never been under pressure with the national team. I am just always happy to guide the young ones because I was also guided by the senior players back then. I am also happy that senior players have been summoned again to support the young ones. I feel confident and great to be in this mix.”

🎙️ ‘The boys are happy and motivated’

Uganda Cranes Captain Aucho Khalid at the pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s match against Mozambique.#FIFAWorldCup | #UGAMOZ pic.twitter.com/qaHuqxmLHw

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 4, 2025

Uganda’s qualifying journey

The Cranes boosted their campaign in March when Allan Okello’s first-half strike secured a 1-0 victory over Guinea at Namboole, snapping a two-match losing streak in the qualifiers. That win reignited belief after successive defeats against Algeria and Mozambique had dented their hopes.

Currently, Uganda sit tied on nine points with Botswana in third, but behind on goal difference.

With back-to-back home fixtures against Mozambique and Somalia, Paul Put’s men will be targeting maximum points to keep pace with the leaders.

Mozambique’s form and challenges

Mozambique enter the contest eager to bounce back from a humbling 5-1 defeat to Algeria in March, where Wolfsburg striker Mohamed El Amine Amoura stole the show with a hat-trick. Geny Catamo grabbed Os Mambas’ only goal on the night.

That result halted a run of three consecutive victories for Chiquinho Conde’s side, including a 1-0 win over Guinea and the reverse fixture triumph against Uganda. They currently sit three points behind leaders Algeria but comfortably ahead of Uganda.

However, their recent outings have been less convincing, following their qualifying loss with a group-stage exit at the 2025 COSAFA Cup and a 2-0 friendly defeat to South Africa in June.

Squad boost for the Cranes

Uganda have assembled a strong squad for September’s fixtures against Mozambique and Somalia. The return of experienced goalkeepers Denis Onyango and Salim Jamal, alongside 11 players from the 2024 CHAN team led by Allan Okello, has lifted morale. Captain Aucho and forward Steven Mukwala were also late inclusions.

Group G standings ahead of Friday’s clash

1. Algeria – 15 points
2. Mozambique – 12 points
3. Botswana – 9 points
4. Uganda – 9 points
5. Guinea – 7 points
6. Somalia – 1 point

With both nations eyeing Algeria at the top, this clash at Namboole could be the defining moment in Uganda’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Uganda will remain at Namboole for their next outing, facing Somalia on Monday, September 8, for match day eight.

The Uganda Cranes continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers with a lively third day of training at Kyambogo Stadium.

The biggest boost came with the arrival of Elvis Bwomono and Jordan Obita, who joined camp to make the number of players in camp twenty-eight. Their addition strengthens the defensive unit and provides more options for the technical team ahead of the crucial fixtures.

The Cranes are set to host Mozambique on Friday, 5th September at 7pm, before returning to action against Somalia on Monday, 8th September at 7pm, both matches at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Players in Camp

Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu, Toby Sibbick, Khalid Aucho, Steven Mukwala, Kayondo Aziizi, Elvis Bwomono and Jordan Obita.

The squad now turns focus to fine-tuning tactical details as the countdown to Friday’s clash begins.

Gallery

The Uganda Cranes entered their second day of training at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, as focus sharpens on Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Mozambique. The match will be followed by another crucial tie against Somalia on 8th September 2025, both under floodlights in Kampala.

Midfielder Allan Okello emphasised the need for intensity and full commitment in training as the team gears up for the doubleheader.

‘Everyone is trying to do their level best in training. Making sure that we get all the tactics we need so that we go all in come Friday,’ Okello said after the session.

The Vipers SC playmaker compared the upcoming fixtures to his experience at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) earlier this year, noting that the World Cup qualifiers demand an even greater focus.

‘CHAN was a different tournament. This is a very different one too. We need to level up because I do not think it is the same level that we are playing in CHAN. So we need to concentrate a lot. As players, we need the confidence, the motivation. And yeah, as always, we need our fans behind us. We can not make this alone. We made history with them together, and we need to make history again starting on Friday.’

On the task ahead, Okello urged his teammates to take a step-by-step approach.

‘I would say a game at a time. We are concentrating on the Mozambique game now. We do not want to focus too much on the following game, which is Somalia. So we make sure that we get the maximum points and then go again in the next game.’

With the Cranes playing in front of home fans, Okello believes the support will be vital in pushing the team closer to their World Cup dream.

‘The fans have been so amazing. They have given us the energy. They have motivated us a lot. We created memories together during CHAN. And we have a very big dream to achieve, which is to qualify for the World Cup. So we need them behind us.’

The midfielder also hailed the impact of experienced players such as Denis Onyango in the camp.

‘It is really amazing. It really helps us, especially the players who are new in the team. Having Denis in the team also motivates us. He gives us the confidence and boosts us up. At the end of the day, what matters most is that we get the results.’

Kenneth Semakula echoed the same confidence, noting the steady progress as more players settle into camp.

‘We have had a good training session. We are just getting the pieces all together. The camp is almost getting full, so it will be a full house I think by tomorrow, inshallah. And everyone is doing well. Of course, we have a target as a nation, so we hope for the best in these two games. Hopefully, we want to get maximum points from both games,’ he said.

Regarding the senior players in the camp, Semakula shared the same sentiments as Okello.

‘This gives the team confidence and then maturity in the team. Leadership, all those things come with the senior players and we are grateful to have them in the squad,’ he added.

As of training day two, twenty-six players are in camp: Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu, Toby Sibbick, Khalid Aucho, Steven Mukwala and Kayondo Aziizi.

Bwomono Elvis and Jordan Obita are expected to join later this afternoon.

The Uganda Cranes have continued their build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers with a second day of training at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The doubleheader will see the Cranes face Mozambique on 5th September 2025 and Somalia on 8th September 2025, both matches scheduled for 7pm.

Day two brought added sharpness to the sessions, with the technical team focusing on tactical drills, fitness work, and team cohesion. The presence of senior players alongside youthful talents created a balanced environment, as the squad worked on shape, transitions and attacking combinations.

The camp has now grown stronger with the arrival of more players, providing the coaching staff with a wider pool to work with. The mix of experience and fresh energy has lifted the tempo as the group gears towards Friday’s opening fixture.

As of Tuesday, the following players are in camp: Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu, Toby Sibbick, Khalid Aucho, Steven Mukwala and Kayondo Aziizi. Bwomono Elvis and Jordan Obita are expected to join later this afternoon.

Pictorial

Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu expressed his delight after taking part in his first training session with the Uganda Cranes at Namboole Stadium ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The forward, who returns to the national setup after previous setbacks, described the moment as long overdue.

‘Yeah, it feels good. It has been a long time coming because every time I have been caught up, I have had a situation, maybe injuries or last time there was COVID. So to finally obviously be here with the national team, obviously being in Uganda, because I have not been here for almost two decades, it is amazing. So yeah, I am excited,’ Ikpeazu told the media.

The Scotland-based striker joined his teammates for his first session on Monday and said the experience was both refreshing and important for team bonding.

‘Obviously, there was a lot of travelling yesterday, but I feel good now. I have got the first training session out of the way and it was good team bonding to be with the boys as well. I think to build that chemistry is important. So yeah, I am happy. I feel good. I feel fine.’

Ikpeazu emphasised that representing Uganda is a privilege and pledged to give his best for the team.

‘Playing for your national team is a privilege. Like I said, I have not been here for a while. So this is my country. This is where I’m from. It is a privilege to be in the position to want to represent your nation. So yeah, I am relishing it. And of course, there is going to be expectations and I want to be able to be the difference and help the team in any way to help us move forward.’

The forward also revealed that he has been closely following the Cranes in recent months and is eager to adapt to the team’s style under Coach Paul Joseph Put.

‘I have seen, I have watched a couple of games prior to me coming here. I have seen some highlights and I have been trying to understand the way we play and how the coach wants us to play. So yeah, it is been really good. I have seen the stadium packed.’

As camp progresses, twenty-three out of the thirty summoned players are so far in camp. They include Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu and Toby Sibbick.

Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango has described his return to the Uganda Cranes as a special moment, calling it an honour to once again wear national colours ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier matches against Mozambique and Somalia.

‘First of all, happy to be back. Round two. It was good news for me because I was also in camp for the club when the call-up came and I shared the news with the team and they were very happy for me because all of them knew that I had retired but some of them wanted to see me back for probably the final time. For me it was incredible to be called back to the national team and to represent the national team and of course the club because when I’m here I’m also representing the club that I play for. So it was good news for everyone at the club and they were wishing me all well,’ Onyango said.

The Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper added that he is relishing the chance to work alongside a new crop of players.

‘For the boys, most of them I have played with and some I have not. I am getting to know them better. Time will tell but it is a very young group, a very energetic group and ready to fight. So for me I am just happy to be with the young blood. They will work hard for me, I believe they will work hard.’

Onyango stressed that no player is guaranteed a place in the starting line-up, highlighting the competition for places among the goalkeepers.

‘There are no guarantees that I am to start. There is Jamal, there is Mutakubwa, there is also Alionzi but yes the position is there for grabs. There is no guarantees in football. Whoever is ready to represent and give the national team the best will play and all we want is for the team to win and get maximum results.’

Reflecting on the responsibility that comes with his return, Onyango noted that experience and unity will be key for the Cranes.

‘Well the responsibility remains the same because what is needed is the results. Regardless of whether I have come in for the second time or the first time, the performance is what speaks volumes. So what we need to do is to support each other and be positive because it is very, very important to stay positive and know that we are all fighting for the same goal. Of course every team needs senior players and young blood because the young blood gives more energy and the senior players help the players to calm down when there is pressure to help them to manage the game. The game requires a lot of experience but it also requires a lot of running which is done by the young ones and that is what we share. We share different ideas, we pick up the good ones and we get the results because no one can win with only youngsters. The team always needs senior players and youngsters to be blended so that they get the results.’

Twenty-three out of the thirty summoned players are so far in camp. They include Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu and Toby Sibbick.

The Uganda Cranes have held their first training session at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Uganda will face Mozambique on 5th September 2025 before playing Somalia on 8th September 2025 in two crucial back-to-back fixtures.

As of this evening, twenty-three out of the thirty summoned players are in camp. They include Mutyaba Travis, Ronald Ssekiganda, Alionzi Nafian, Denis Onyango, Magoola Salim, Kakande Patrick, Serunjogi Joel, Ssemugabi Jude, Mpande Joseph, Achayi Herbert, Gavin Kizito, Rogers Torach, Mukundane Hillary, Allan Okello, Mpande Reagan, Omedi Denis, Mutakubwa Joel, Watambala Abdu Karim, Semakula Kenneth, Elio Capradossi, Rogers Mato, Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu and Toby Sibbick.

Head Coach Paul Joseph Put admitted that the opening day of camp presented its challenges, especially with players travelling from different parts of the world after a busy weekend schedule with their clubs.

First steps towards the qualifiers. Training.

5.9.2025: Uganda vs Mozambique 7pm
8.9.2025: Uganda vs Somalia 7pm #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/2O4Ilf72FE

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 1, 2025

‘You know, the most difficult part for the coach is the first day, when the players are coming, and I told them, because with the national team you do not have time, it is not the preparation that you have for 3-4 weeks, you have only 2-3-4 days, and then you have to play. But I think they understand very well the message,’ he said.

Put further noted that more players are expected to join camp within the next 24 hours.

‘They have been playing in the weekend, and also you know in Africa it is not easy to travel, so there will be players coming tonight, tomorrow morning, but those who are coming tomorrow morning it will be difficult to get them on the field, we are going to work with them individually, but I think most of the players will be on the pitch tomorrow. We are normally complete if we have no injuries, so we have to go with the players we have. So I do not see any problems, only maybe Jude we have to see. We are going to do medical today to find out if it is not too serious. If it is not, then he will integrate also in the training.’

The coach also reflected on the progress of the CHAN players who earned their places in the senior team.

The gaffer Paul Put ✍️#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/QYXnaWvIrJ

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 1, 2025

‘They have been working with me almost three months, every day from morning till night, so I know them, I know their progress, I have confidence in them. So I also have to put pressure on the players, that nobody is secure of their place. But the players who were called up for CHAN, I think they have been proven, they have been progressing, so it is up to them. With me, I don’t see if you are playing outside the country, or in Uganda, for me the best players will play.’

The Cranes will continue training daily at Namboole as the squad builds momentum for the doubleheader.

Purchase your Match Day Ticket early!
FIFA World Cup matches are coming to Mandela National Stadium!
– All tickets will be sold online (no physical tickets)
– Quoted prices are for each Match Day
– Early bird tickets are limited edition and will go on sale on Monday#FIFAWC2026Q pic.twitter.com/5Z3gUI2ng4

— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) August 30, 2025

Excitement is building as the Uganda Cranes gear up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers double header at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The Cranes will first host Mozambique on Friday, 5th September at 7pm, before returning to the same venue on Monday, 8th September to face Somalia.

FUFA has confirmed that all tickets will be sold exclusively online, with no physical tickets available at the gates. Fans can purchase their matchday passes through the FUFA ticket app or via MOMO Pay.

To ensure a smooth experience for supporters, FUFA has introduced a tiered pricing system:

Early Bird – UGX 10,000 (limited edition, available from Monday afternoon)
Ordinary – UGX 20,000
Silver – UGX 30,000
Premium – UGX 50,000
Platinum – UGX 150,000

FUFA Executive Committee Member, Roger Byamukama, urged fans to purchase tickets early and turn up in large numbers to rally behind the national team:

“We call upon fans to buy tickets early to avoid the last-minute rush and also come in big numbers to give our boys a chance in these two games. Preparations are ongoing and our team is working around the clock to ensure that the experience at Namboole remains top class.”

The doubleheader will also feature Somalia against Guinea in the curtain-raiser on Friday at 3pm, before Uganda takes to the pitch later that evening against Mozambique.

Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early and create an electrifying atmosphere as the Cranes aim to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put announced his 28-man squad for the two games scheduled for September at an event held at FUFA Complex Mengo on Tuesday 27th August 2025. Uganda will face Mozambique on 5th September 2025 at Mandela National Stadium and later face Somalia on Monday, 8th September 2025 at the same venue. Both matches kick off at 7:00 PM.

While addressing the press, the head coach expressed confidence in the eleven players who featured in TotalEnergies CHAN 2024.

‘I am so proud of the boys and the technical team at large. It was very hot during the two months, and we saw players doing their best. I was very happy with the way they were working and from this, I am so confident that they will deliver. I was satisfied with their energy. If they can bring the work they played against South Africa, we are good to go. They have been progressing in each game; they deserve to be in the squad. I want them to connect more with the international players so that they can be more exposed,’ he said.

When asked about including Denis Onyango in the squad, the head coach expressed his thoughts.

‘He helped out the goalkeepers in the CHAN team and I got the opportunity to meet and understand him. He is very experienced, and being that he plays for Sundowns, we need that experience for the national team. Playing these two games will also help us prepare more for the AFCON tournament.’

Put showed gratitude to the fans who supported the team during the CHAN tournament.

‘I have never had a chance to thank the fans who supported the boys during CHAN. They pushed them and motivated them to play and make every minute on the pitch count. Thank you, fans, thank you Uganda. I have always experienced this with the senior team; they are always behind us. We ask for the same energy even in our upcoming games.’

The Cranes will kick off their training on September 1st and will start entering residential camp at the FUFA Hotel in Kisaasi on 31st August 2025.

---

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has announced the Uganda Cranes squad for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

The 28-man team will take on Mozambique on 5 September 2025 before playing Somalia on 8 September 2025 both games at Namboole stadium in crucial back-to-back fixtures.

The squad blends experienced internationals with emerging talents from both local and overseas clubs. The highlight of the announcement is the return of veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who comes out of international retirement to bolster the Cranes’ ranks. Joining him in goal is fellow custodian Salim Jamal, who also returns to the national setup.

Uganda’s attack will feature notable returnees including Vietnam-based forward Joseph Mpande, who makes his national team comeback after more than a decade, and Uchechukwu Ikpeazu, summoned once again.

The squad also welcomes back defender Herbert Bockhorn and left-back Jordan Obita, who impressed during his debut in the previous international break in Morocco against Cameroon.

A strong local presence is evident as 11 players from the 2024 CHAN tournament feature in the squad, reflecting the continued development and impact of home-based talent on the national team.

Full Squad List

Goalkeepers

Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Salim Omar Magoola (Richards Bay FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia) and Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC, Uganda)

Defenders

Elvis Bwomono (IBV Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland), Herbert Bockhorn (FC Magdeburg, Germany), Elio Capradossi (Universitatea Cluj, Romania), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC, Uganda), Toby Sibbick (Burton Albion, England), Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC, Uganda), Jordan Obita (Hibernian, Scotland), Aziz Kayondo (Slovan Liberec, Czech Republic), Herbert Achayi (KCCA FC, Uganda) and Gavin Kizito (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Midfielders

Ronald Ssekiganda (APR FC, Rwanda), Kenneth Semakula (Al Arabi SC, Kuwait), Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC, Uganda), Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC, Uganda) and Travis Mutyaba (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia)

Forwards

Denis Omedi (APR FC, Rwanda), Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda), Joseph Mpande (PVF Cand FC, Vietnam), Rogers Mato (FK Vardar, Macedonia), Reagan Mpande (SC Villa, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), John Paul Dembe (AC Hackens, Sweden), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa, Uganda) and Uchechukwu Ikpeazu (St. Johnstone, Scotland)