The Uganda Cranes will march into the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday night with confidence surging high and momentum firmly on their side as they host Somalia in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Fresh from a thunderous 4-0 demolition of Mozambique, Paul Joseph Put’s men have reignited their qualification campaign in style and now sit second in Group G.
Against a Somali side still seeking its first meaningful breakthrough on the continental stage, the Cranes will be looking to tighten their grip on a possible ticket to the biggest showpiece in global football.
But while Uganda dazzled against the Mambas, Put faces a welcome selection headache.
Star forward Denis Omedi returns from suspension, throwing a curveball into the attack that already clicked superbly in his absence.
Omedi, who plies his trade with APR in Rwanda, offers prolific instincts in front of goal, but his inclusion may come at the expense of the industrious Jude Ssemugabi, a man who quietly stole the spotlight against Mozambique.
Rated 7.5/10 for his all-action display, Ssemugabi embodied the perfect team player, linking midfield to attack, supporting the wingers, and even troubling the defense when deployed as a makeshift striker. Dropping him would be a tough call for the Belgian tactician.
Uganda’s strength, however, lies not just in individuals but in collective energy.
With home advantage, a packed Namboole crowd, and their current razor-sharp form, the Cranes are tipped to shine again.
Xavi Sports Media predicts a 3-0 triumph, a result that would keep World Cup dreams burning brighter than ever.
Probable Uganda Cranes Lineup vs Somalia:
- Goalkeeper: Jamal Salim
- Defenders: Elvis Bwomono, Aziz Kayondo, Jordan Obita, Elio Capradossi
- Midfielders: Kenneth Ssemakula, Aucho Khalid, Allan Okello
- Forwards: Jude Ssemugabi, Rogers Mato, Steven Mukwala
With the stakes sky-high and the Cranes’ wings spread wide, the mission is simple: keep soaring, keep scoring, and keep the World Cup dream alive.
