The Uganda Cranes continued their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying dream with a routine yet hard-fought 2-0 triumph over Somalia on Monday night at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Two first-half goals, Allan Okello’s ice-cool penalty and Jude Ssemugabi’s predatory strike sealed the victory for the hosts, who now sit level on 15 points with Mozambique in Group G, just four adrift of leaders Algeria.
Okello drew first blood inside five minutes after Aziz Kayondo’s marauding run forced Somali defender Abdulle Abdullani into a clumsy challenge, leaving referee Ibrahim Traore Kalilou of Côte d’Ivoire with no option but to point to the spot.
The playmaker made no mistake, stroking home with composure to send the crowd into raptures.
The second arrived in the 38th minute when Kayondo’s devilish cross met Steven Mukwala’s towering header, which goalkeeper Jama could only fumble into the path of the ever-alert Ssemugabi, who tapped in with ease.
The night also marked a home debut for Burton Albion’s Toby Peter Sibbick, while the blossoming defensive partnership of Elio Capradossi and John Jordan Obita once again stood firm.
Uganda Cranes Player Ratings vs Somalia
Jamal Salim – 6.5/10
Two clean sheets in two games. Showed confidence, at times bordering on overconfidence, and still shaky under aerial pressure from set pieces.
Toby Sibbick – 7/10
A home debut to remember. Defensively solid, rarely troubled in one-on-one battles, and comfortable on the ball.
Aziz Kayondo – 8/10
A livewire down the left flank. Aggressive with and without the ball, clever in overlaps, though his final delivery still needs polish.
Elio Capradossi – 8.5/10
Commanding and assured. His leadership, reading of the game, and composure in build-up play stood out. Needs to refine switch plays but was a rock in defense.
Jordan Obita – 7/10
Calm under pressure, safe with the ball, and effective in man-marking. Supported the backline with discipline.
Khalid Aucho – 6.5/10
A silent commander in midfield. Distributed with ease but over-relied on sideways passes. Must be braver in possession.
Kenneth Ssemakula – 9.5/10 (Man of the Match)
A masterclass. Composed, aggressive, and intelligent in positioning. Won duels, dictated play, and showed maturity beyond his years.
Rogers Mato – 5/10
Failed to replicate his heroics against Mozambique. Wasteful in attack and lacked consistency.
Allan Okello – 8/10
Uganda’s magician. His silky touches, mobility, and penalty execution electrified the crowd. Needs more focus in his attacking zone.
Steven Mukwala – 8/10
Didn’t find the net but caused havoc with his runs, strength, and link-up play. His presence unsettled the Somali defense.
Jude Ssemugabi – 7.5/10
Rewarded with a goal and constant menace to defenders. Physical, pacy, and still improving with every appearance.
Denis Omedi – 4/10
A disappointing substitution. Struggled to match the tempo, poor first touch, and failed to influence proceedings.
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