The Uganda Cranes reignited their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Guinea on Tuesday evening at Nelson Mandela Stadium, Namboole.
Vipers SC forward Allan Okello delivered the decisive moment of the contest, curling home a stunning free kick in the 37th minute to secure a much-needed three points for the national side.
Uganda started the match with intent, dominating possession and pressing high up the pitch.
Left-back Aziz Kayondo was a constant threat, making marauding runs and whipping in dangerous crosses, though striker Muhammad Shaban was unable to convert the early chances.
The breakthrough arrived just before the interval when Guinea’s Mady Camara fouled Travis Mutyaba on the edge of the penalty area.
Okello stepped up and expertly placed his effort into the top corner, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Despite leading at halftime, Uganda faced some adversity in the second half.
Head coach Paul Put was forced into a defensive reshuffle as Timothy Awany replaced the injured Elvis Bwomono at right-back.
The visitors applied pressure in search of an equalizer, but the Cranes’ backline remained resolute.
Further concerns arose when Shaban picked up a knee injury, paving the way for Calvin Kabuye to enter the fray.
However, Guinea continued to probe, nearly leveling late on, but goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi made a brilliant reflex save to keep Uganda’s lead intact.
With five minutes left on the clock, Guinea appealed for a penalty following a handball claim, but the referee waved play on, awarding a goal kick instead.
The final whistle sparked celebrations as Uganda’s disciplined display saw them climb to third place in Group G with nine points.
Despite missing key midfielder Khalid Aucho, the team produced a more structured performance, with Alionzi proving a reliable presence between the posts.
His selection over Ismail Watenga, who struggled in the previous match against Mozambique, proved justified.
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